18 comments/  86790 views/  141 favorites

Heart of Stone

By: psyche_b_mused



1. Meeting

Mary told herself that she should look at this as an adventure. 

She had lived with her Aunt Patrice since she was born, and since Aunt Patrice was a religious homebody, Mary had been too. When Patrice died unexpectedly she felt completely lost and confused. She had no friends to comfort her, her aunt believed friends were nothing but a bad influence. She graduated from an all girls Catholic high school, but had never worked or did much of anything outside of the home. Going to church was a big event, but not something that one was supposed to be excited about. The lawyer that she went to see about her aunt's Will had been the first person she had spoken to in a week.

"Your aunt made arrangements for you to inherit her house and its contents, and a few financial assets." She wasn't surprised by that. Her aunt didn't have much, but she also didn't have any children of her own. "Then there's the house in England and the associated assets."

"Wait a minute, what house in England?" Mary was shocked.

"Patrice didn't tell you?" He looked over the rim of his glasses, his bushy eyebrows drawn together.

"No. Are you sure there isn't some mistake?" She leaned forward, trying to look at the papers spread out on his wide desk.

"No, there's no mistake. Your great-grandfather Ambrose Beeson left you his estate, your aunt was supposed to tell you that when you turned eighteen. Knowing Patrice's peculiarities though, I'm not surprised that she didn't."

"I didn't know I had a great-grandfather Ambrose." Mary thought back to her eighteenth birthday, nearly two years ago now. It seemed like something had been bothering her Aunt Patrice, but she claimed it was nothing.

"You wouldn't have met him. He was a rather strange sort from what I've been told. He never set foot in this country and from what my colleagues in London tell me he chose you as his heir because of your birth date. The house in an enormous mausoleum of a place, but he made provision for it to be well cared for so it should be in good repair. There are substantial financial assets and investments that go along with it so with a bit of care you should be able to manage quite well for the rest of your life." Mary barely heard him as he continued, telling her that he would make her travel arrangements for her.

The flight to England was terrifying and wonderful. Mary had only been out of her small hometown once, and that was to go to the funeral of a great-uncle she had never met. Aunt Patrice had driven directly there and directly home again, saying there was nothing anywhere that was any different than it was at home. This was most definitely different than anything in Langston. 

She was met by a car at the airport and taken to meet with her great-grandfather's attorney (or solicitor, as she learned he was called), Mr. Scott. She spent a mostly sleepless night in a very nice hotel and the next day he took her out to the house. In the car, she told herself that this was an adventure. If she didn't look at it that way she would have been trembling with terror. 

They arrived just before three and Mary was awestruck by her first sight of the house. The small bungalow she had shared with her aunt was nothing like the enormous stone edifice that she stood in front of. There were towers and battlements, stone gargoyles glared down at her from several different directions in silent threat.

"Miss Beeson?" An older woman looked at her with motherly concern and Mary realized that she was standing there with her mouth hanging open.

"Yes, I'm sorry." Mary blushed and the older woman smiled at her. 

"It's alright, most people react that way when they first see Beeson Hall. It looks like something out of an old movie, or so I've been told. I'm Mrs. March, the housekeeper. Mr. March keeps the gardens and does most of the odd jobs around here. He was supposed to be here to meet you too, but he likely lost track of time." A pinched looking young woman picked up her suitcases and took them inside. 

"This is Maggie. She comes in from the village and if you find you want more help there are plenty of girls in the village who would be happy for the work. Mr. March and I live in a cottage on the grounds." 

"It's nice to meet both of you." Mary said, following the Mrs. March into the house. She found that the inside was as imposing as outside. It was clean, but dark. Stern-looking people looked down from portraits and Mary was reminded how the statues of the Saints in their church at home always looked like they disapproved. The heavy antiques and dark draperies made the house feel as if it were hiding some deformity that would be revealed in the light. Mrs. March led them into a sitting room.

"If you and Mr. Scott would like to make yourselves at home I'll bring in a pot of tea." Mrs. March left them and Mary started to look around the room.

"Did you know Ambrose Beeson?" She asked.

"Not well. Toward the end he saw very few people, he only saw me long enough to iron out the details of the estate." He finished telling her about her great-grandfather's financial holdings and how they were managed. He gave her a large set of keys and his card, telling her to call him if she had any questions or needed anything.

Mary ate dinner alone and then Mrs. March gave her a tour of the house and was able to tell her a little more about Ambrose. Mostly, she described how Ambrose had an almost obsessive interest in the occult. The house itself was enormous and she knew she would have to wander around on her own to really get to know the place, and she was certain that she would probably get lost at some point. Finally, she was shown her rooms. They had been her great-grandfather's and there was a sitting area and bedroom as well as a spacious balcony and a fireplace large enough for her to stand up in. There were a few lamps, but Mrs. March told her that the electricity was sometimes unreliable. She left her candles and oil lamps and then said goodnight.

Once again she was alone and a little nervous in the cavernous rooms with strange shadows and odd noises. She tried to sleep, but even though the huge, curtained bed was comfortable she found she couldn't relax. Mary got up and wandered to the draped doorway to the balcony. The weather was mild so she walked out in her long white cotton nightgown and bare feet. She stood at the railing and looked out over the dark countryside. There were a few lights on in the village, Badger's Drift she thought Mrs. March said it was called, but that was all. She turned to go back in and nearly screamed when she saw the large stone gargoyle crouching in the shadows.

Mary got hold of herself and laughed softly at how silly she was being. It seemed like all the talk about her great-grandfather's odd interests was playing on her mind more than she liked to admit. She walked over to the statue. 

This one wasn't like the others that decorated the exterior of the house, those were very much beasts. This one was more like a man than a beast, though to be fair he would have been a very large man, a man who had arching wings, two sets of horns sprouting from his forehead and talons on his feet. This one was also more finely carved than the other ones too. He sat on a stone block, or at least the way the light was it looked like he was sitting on it. Whoever the sculptor had been he probably took a lot of care to make it seem that way. She moved closer and laid one small hand on one enormous bicep. In a strange way it was comforting to have him there, she didn't feel so alone. She stroked the smooth stone and walked inside.

Mary spent the next two weeks exploring the house. Mrs. March told her that no one had lived there since Ambrose died and it seemed like no one had reorganized anything either. Each of the rooms appeared to be just as he had left it and each told her more about him. She found scribbled notes, bills, correspondence, and scraps of paper filled with thoughts and phrases he seemed to be refining. Each night she spent time on the balcony and eventually she started talking to the gargoyle. It seemed to be the only thing that was always there to listen and most of what Ambrose wrote about was the gargoyle. It all seemed insane anyway, only a stone being would have the patience to listen.

From what she could piece together, Ambrose actually thought that gargoyle was a living thing. He wrote about finding the right spell, speaking it at the right time and in the right order to restore it to life. Aunt Patrice would have been angry with her for even thinking about such ridiculous things, but then, Aunt Patrice wasn't here and it was such a delicious mystery. Of course she didn't really think that what he was raving about was true. It couldn't be. She figured she was just getting to know Ambrose better, even if she was getting to know that he didn't have a firm grip on reality.

Finally, she had only the basement and attic left and Mary found that even her curiosity couldn't keep her from being terribly lonely. Mrs. March kept her distance, telling her that it wasn't right for them to socialize. Maggie treated her like an intruder. Mr. March was friendly enough, but her knowledge of gardening was limited and while she always liked to learn more there was only so long she could listen to him talk about it.

After feeling at loose ends for several days she found herself on the balcony again. She knew she was feeling sorry for herself, but she couldn't stop the tears from falling. She stood between the statue's massive thighs, wrapped her arms around the carved stone bicep and sobbed. 

Mary wasn't sure when she felt the change, or if she felt anything at all until a large hand cradled the back of her head. She jumped back, her eyes wide with fear as she looked into the eyes of the formerly stone creature.

"Hush, child." His soft baritone sent shivers down her spine. "You came to me for comfort; allow me to give it to you." He moved toward her slowly and Mary found she felt rooted to the spot. One large arm encircled her waist and he pulled her into his broad lap. Mary was afraid to struggle, but her body was achingly tense, so tense she could barely breathe. Her sobs came in painful gasps. The longer he held her though, the more relaxed she became. He touched her softly. He held her carefully. His body was warm and felt like almost like human flesh. She heard him breathing, and she noticed that there was the soft scent of some exotic spice on his skin. Slowly, she relaxed against him, her arms slipping around his body.

"I did not think you would be so frightened." He said when she had calmed. His voice was soft and was as much a sensation as a sound. 

"W-why not?" Mary looked up at him, his eyes were a shade of green she had never seen before, and they looked concerned. At least she thought they did. His features were heavier than those of a human face, but the way they were animated seemed the same.

"You spoke to me of Ambrose." His heavy brows drew together. Mary couldn't tell if he was confused or angry. "You spoke of his studies."

"You heard me?" Mary's head was spinning.

"You doubted him when he said that I would?" He looked as confused as she was. Mary shook her head and tried to grab onto at least one of her racing thoughts. She looked up when the first raindrops started to fall. He wrapped his wings around her, shielding her from the rain. They were made of skin, like a bat's wings and they were surprisingly effective in keeping her dry.

"Come inside." She said, moving to get down. He held her fast and carried her through the doorway. He unwrapped his wings and set her gently on her feet when the door was closed. "If you want to get comfortable by the fire, I need to change." In her surprise Mary had forgotten she was wearing only a light blue nightgown that came to just above her knees. Technically it shouldn't matter, technically he wasn't a man. Something about him seemed so human though. She changed quickly into a dark green skirt that came to just below her knees and a simple white blouse. She found him sitting by the fire, his eyes closed.

"It has changed little." He said softly. Mary had wondered who used the heavy, U-shaped chair with the low, narrow back. It seemed too large for any person, but for him it fit perfectly. She approached nervously.

"Can I get you something to drink, or eat?" She thought it was probably the most ridiculous thing she could have asked. She had a million other questions for him and a number for herself, mostly regarding her own sanity.

"No, child." He smiled benignly at her and she sat in the large wing chair opposite him. "You do not understand any of this, do you?"

"I'm sorry, I don't." His tail brushed lightly against her ankle and Mary jumped. It was something she hadn't noticed on the statue. She hadn't noticed the three heavy steel rings that adorned each pointed ear either. She was thankful that he was still wearing the ample loin cloth she had noticed on the statue. "I'm Mary Beeson." She said finally. He smiled slightly and the firelight caught one sharp canine, something else she hadn't seen before.

"You had to be in his line, that was never in question." He looked at her. "I am called Aiden."

"I'm pleased to meet you." She smiled shyly and she couldn't help but lower her eyes when his gaze lingered on her.

"Your demons are drawn in the form of my kind, but I give you my vow that I mean you no harm." His voice was sincere, so were his eyes when she glanced up at him again.

"I know I sound terribly stupid, but, there are more of you?" He laughed softly and the rumble seemed to vibrate the room.

"We are a race like your own. Why did Ambrose not tell you these things?" He looked at her curiously and Mary noticed how the firelight played over his skin. It wasn't entirely the gray of stone anymore, but she was hard pressed to describe what color it was. There were hints of blue, purple, green and a number of other muted colors that she couldn't name.

"I never met Ambrose." Mary said, feeling herself start to calm down. "Mr. Scott told me that he died when I was six months old. He made me his heir when he found out my birth date."

"But you spoke to me of his work, I did not dream that." He leaned toward her now and Mary didn't pull back.

"Yes, I mean no." She wasn't used to being looked at so intensely. "I mean I DID talk about him, but those were things he had written. I found them when I was looking through the house. It might be easier if I show you." She went into the bedroom and opened the desk, looking for the small packet of things she had found that related to the gargoyle. Why she had bothered to separate it hadn't been clear at the time, now she was glad. She had just opened another drawer when the lights went out. Mary gasped softly and tried to remember where the matches were and where the candles were. As she was feeling around in the dark Aiden came in carrying a lit candle.

"Thank you." She said gratefully. "Mrs. March says the power isn't always reliable." He looked somewhat confused.

"Light without fire." He said after a moment, smiling slightly. "Ambrose told me about it and I thought it was a strange notion at the time. It appears I was right." He set the candle on the desk and watched as she searched through another drawer. She was trying not to think about how close he was to her, or the fact that he was nearly eight feet tall. She watched out of the corner of her eye as the soft light played over his defined muscles.

"Here it is." Her heart was pounding by the time she handed him the packet. 

"This is all of it?" He asked, leading her back to the fire.

"Yes. All that I've found so far anyway." She sat down and he began looking at the documents in the firelight. Mary was astounded how delicately his taloned fingers were able to handle the fragile pages.

"He spoke of a library." He said, almost to himself.

"Maybe this is another silly question, but how did you hear him? Or me for that matter." She relaxed. 

"Let me begin at the beginning. I told you that mine is a race like yours, we lived alongside you for centuries without incident. It is our nature to become stone during the day and thus we are vulnerable, so your kind protected us when the sun shone and we protected your kind after the sun set. It was a useful arrangement but, as we all know, nothing is eternal." He looked into the dying fire and put two more logs on it before continuing. 

"The church was growing in power at the time, and for some reason our very existence offended the priests. Many of my kind were destroyed by the very humans we protected. Others were destroyed by mobs that also killed those who tried to protect us. Your family and a few others managed to give shelter to a few of us and survive. Like all insane despots, the church was not happy with simply destroying the majority of a race; they wanted all of us eliminated. A powerful Warlock convinced the leaders he could turn us to stone for eternity, giving those who wished to destroy us unlimited time to achieve that goal."

"Wait, the church dealt with a Warlock? I thought any kind of magic or witchcraft had always been denounced as the work of Satan." Mary leaned forward more curious than afraid at that moment. He turned to her and smiled softly.

"You are confusing faith with power, child. People have faith, what the hierarchy desired was nothing less than dominion over the world itself. The easiest way to achieve their ends was to eliminate those who clearly would not accept their authority and terrify those who were unsure into falling in line. My kind would not. Those who bowed to no one but nature herself would not. As so often happens, the hunger for power leads those who desire it to break their own rules." He looked away from her and continued the story.

"His spell was cast, and we were frozen in time. Ambrose told me your ancestors began searching for a way to reverse the spell as soon as they realized what had happened. His father, Lawrence, managed to find a way to allow me to hear if the person speaking was touching me. That is how I could hear Ambrose and then you." He raised his eyes to her again. "The last time he spoke to me he told me that he had selected someone to carry on, but I waited so long I was beginning to wonder if his heir had died as well."

"I've lived with an Aunt since I was born. She didn't tell me that this house or Ambrose even existed. I've only been here for two weeks." His eyebrows drew together.

"But I have heard you for seven nights at least." He said, looking at her curiously.

"I was lonely. I know how pathetic that sounds." She looked away. "So many of the things I was finding talked about you anyway. Before I went to sleep I would just go out and lean against the...against you....and talk about what I had read."

"And what of those you are close to?" He reached forward and lifted her chin. Mary was surprised that his reach was so long.

"Anyone I knew is back in America, even then I wasn't really close to anyone. That's how Aunt Patrice always wanted it." She stroked his hand and wrist softly, noticing that even though his skin felt as if it was made up of fine scales it was almost as soft as hers. She found her mind was spinning again, only this time she wasn't entirely sure why. "You said there were others like you." She said softly, forcing herself to take her hand off of his. He pulled back as well, but reluctantly.

"Perhaps a dozen, perhaps less. I am not certain if the incantation you spoke would have broken the spell for all of us, because of the alterations Ambrose made to my imprisonment."

"But I didn't use any incantation." She was looking at him curiously. "All I did was cry on you."

"I will have to study on this myself, but if there was no unbinding spell spoken then the others are as they were, if they still exist."


Heart of Stone



"Do you know where they were?" She was leaning forward now, curious.

"I know the names of the families who were protecting them." His eyes were narrowed.

"Then we can probably find them, so you'll know they still exist at least."

"You believe you can do this?" He looked as if he wasn't quite sure whether or not to believe her. Mary smiled shyly.

"I don't know anything about spells or magic, but I grew up in a house where everything was a secret and asking questions was a sin. So I got to be very good at finding the answers on my own. It probably won't be easy or quick, but I don't think it's impossible either. That is, if you'll trust me."

"I trusted your ancestors with my very existence, I will trust you with this." He smiled and dictated a list of eight names. Mary wrote them quickly and then checked the spelling. "There are several others, but they evade me."

"I'll start with these. When you think of the others, I'll add them." He got up and Mary jumped to her feet as well.

"I still make you nervous child." He said softly.

"I was always told that magic wasn't real and gargoyles were just stone decorations on buildings. I'm still getting used to all of this." He stroked her cheek softly with his thumb and again Mary was amazed by the delicate touch of such a wicked looking talon.

"I would stay to further allay your fears but I must feed after my long sleep." He was looking down on her, his thumb still stroking her cheek lightly.

"What do you eat, exactly?" All manner of things ran through her head, including visions of villagers storming the Hall with torches. He smiled broadly, revealing the sharp canines as well as a number of other pointed teeth.

"There are still deer on the estate, are there not?" He asked.

"Yes, quite a number of them, according to Mr. March." She said, feeling her heart settle again.

"Then you will have one less in the morning. I will remain on the balcony when I return, I know you need to rest and I will not intrude into your bedchamber." Mary nodded, barely able to form words. He strode out into the darkness and she closed the doors behind him shutting out the rain and chill.



Heart of Stone Ch. 02



Author's Note: To those who commented on the first chapter....Thank You! I hope you continue to enjoy. :)

2. The Absence of Fear

The next morning Mary went out to find the statue in the same place it always had been, and she began to question whether the whole thing had been a dream. She wandered back in to the sitting room and saw the list of names. At least that part hadn't been a hallucination. She went back outside, feeling a little more certain that she hadn't dreamed the whole thing. Mary hesitated before touching him. When he was just a statue, she felt free to touch him anywhere. Now that that she thought of him as a living thing she was hesitant about touching him somewhere that might be offensive to him. Finally she laid her hand on one large wrist. He hadn't seemed upset when she touched him there the night before.

"Aiden, I don't know if you can hear me, and if I'm disturbing you I'm sorry, but I'm about to start looking for information. I'll let you know if I find anything tonight." She took her hand off of his arm and walked back inside. She was still not entirely sure that she hadn't made up the names on the list, but she supposed it couldn't hurt to do a few Internet searches. It wasn't like she was terribly busy anyway.

The knowledge she had of the Internet was gained mostly at the public library. Aunt Patrice didn't believe in using computers, but the library was an acceptable place for Mary to spend time. She used that to her advantage. One of the things she had requested before making the trip was that a top of the line laptop be set up with printer and Internet connection. She sat down with her list of names in her own private library and started searching.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary meant to be on the balcony just after sunset, to make sure she hadn't just been dreaming the night before, but she wasn't used to spending so much time in front of a computer screen. She ate an early dinner and sent Mrs. March home for the night. She did the dishes herself, then went to her room, stretching out on the sofa in front of the fire. She thought her eyes only closed for a moment, but when she opened them again there was a blanket over her, and Aiden was sitting in his chair reading the notes she had made. The yellow legal pad looked tiny in his hands. Mary pinched herself to make certain she wasn't still asleep. 

"When did you get here?" She ran her fingers through her long, dark brown hair, trying to put it back in some kind of order.

"Not long ago." He smiled slightly, watching her move. "You were sleeping so peacefully I did not wish to wake you."

"Did you cover me?" She asked, fingering the blanket a bit, her mind waking slowly.

"You were shivering." He lowered his head again, but Mary could feel him watching her out of the corner of his eye. "You found all of this in so few hours? I thought you knew no one." 

"I don't. That was just stuff I managed to dig up on the Internet." She pulled the ottoman over next to his chair and sat down. "The sections with stars next to them are ones that I wasn't sure of, like I found two John Pressmans in two different locations in that time period. I wasn't sure what was right, so I wrote down the information I found on both. What?" She asked after realizing that he was looking at her strangely.

"Internet?" He asked, the tip of his tail stroked her ankle. It sent pleasant shivers through her but Mary told herself that he wasn't doing it intentionally. She forced herself to be still and ignore it.

"Sorry, it's-" She paused for a moment, thinking. "Well you can get information if you-" She paused again, unsure of how to continue. "Let me show you."

He followed her downstairs and now she knew why the doorways were taller and wider than any she had ever seen and why all the floors were stone. That day she also noticed how there was at least one piece of furniture in each room that fit him, though most of it was fragile-looking and she doubted it would bear his weight. She spent the next several hours talking about what she had found, and, in a stilted way, trying to explain how she had found it. He settled on believing there was some magic behind it and Mary decided that that made it considerably easier for her. The whole time his tail stroked her bare ankle softly. 

Once he understood how she had found so much information and pointed her in the right direction on those families she was unsure of he began scanning the books on the shelves. She had done the same thing herself when she first time she explored the room. Mostly old fiction and history, some erotica that was tempting but she was too afraid Mrs. March would see it was missing.

"No." He said finally, his wings rustled softly. "This is not the library Ambrose spoke of, though I doubted it would be."

"This is the only library I've found so far. Did he tell you there was another one?" She walked over to him slowly.

"He described it once as 'downstairs'. There is a cellar?" 

"There is, but I haven't been down there yet." She went to the desk and got the heavy ring of keys she'd been given. "Mrs. March keeps it locked, though I think she would keep every door in the house locked if it were up to her." 

She led him down a dim hallway near the kitchen to a door that was all but hidden. She tried several keys before getting the old lock to open. She flipped a light switch and the inky darkness receded to a murky gray. Mary felt her heart starting to beat faster. 

"I need a flashlight." She said, worried that the lights would go out again and they would be trapped in the dark. Searching through the kitchen and finding one before following him down the stairs. They were stone, like everything else seemed to be. "Mr. Scott said there was a wine cellar to the left, but he wasn't sure what was in the rest of it." She was whispering, as if she might disturb someone or something that was hiding in the dark corners. Mary turned on the beam of the flashlight and swept it over the stone wall in front of them.

"Wait." He took her wrist and moved the beam of light back and she noticed the way it caught a strange shadow near a rotting wood cabinet. She held the light on it as he moved it aside, revealing a hallway. Mary walked forward slowly, the beam pressing back the velvety darkness and illuminating walls that were soft and gray with spider webs. She took two steps back, feeling her whole body start to tremble.

"Mary?" He asked, his eyes concerned.

"I can't go in there." Her voice was unsteady. "You don't need me anyway."

"Perhaps not, but I do not like to see you so frightened." He followed her as she took another step back.

"Spiders." She whispered, her eyes still fixed on the newly revealed hallway. "I'm terrified of them. I CAN'T go in there." She was close to tears now and nearly panicked. He wrapped his arms around her protectively, one large hand on the back of her head. Mary trembled against his chest.

"Hush, child. I do not understand such fear of a creature that is so small but I will not force you into a terrifying ordeal." He spoke softly and Mary felt comforted by the soft rumble of his voice.

"I'm sorry. I guess I already haven't lived up to my ancestors." She looked up at him and tried to force a smile. 

"You are the product of your time and experience, as they were products of theirs and neither is greater or lesser. Have I your permission to explore?" He smiled slightly.

"Of course." She handed him the ring of keys and the flashlight. "If you find it, I don't know if it's locked, or if the key is even on here. They're all I was given though." He walked with her back to the stairs and started up with her.

"Aren't you going to search?" She asked, hesitating.

"Yes, but not until I have seen you to a place where you feel safe." He smiled slightly and Mary allowed him to lead her up the stairs and back into the library. She stretched out on the leather sofa with a book and waited for him, pondering how nice it felt to have her very own protector, and trying not to think about the legions of spiders that might be squeezing under the door at that very moment. 

Whether it was the book, the excitement of the evening or simply being tired she must have nodded off again because she awoke in Aiden's arms. He was carrying her up the stairs. Strangely enough, she found it wasn't uncomfortable. She pressed a little closer to him.

"What time is it?" She asked softly.

"It will be dawn soon." He said softly, setting her on her feet carefully and holding her for a moment while she regained her balance. 

"Did you find it?" She asked softly, forcing herself to step away from him.

"No." He looked disappointed. "But we will continue to look. I replaced the keys and light you gave me." Mary nodded.

"So what was down that other tunnel?" She asked.

"More wine." He smiled slightly. "I must take my leave. Rest well child."

"You too." She called after him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For the next several months the routine was the same. She would search for others during the day and tell him about the results when he awakened. Mary was surprised how many doors opened to her when she mentioned she was the new owner of Beeson Hall. Unfortunately, once those doors were opened she found out that there was nothing behind them. A few related old family legends, but none had ever seen a statue. She was getting used to telling him that she had hit a dead end. Finally, she thought she located one, she wasn't prepared to hear the truth of the matter. Mary had no idea how to tell him.

"What troubles you so child?" They were sitting by the fire, as they usually did in the early evening. Mary had moved the wing chair closer to his chair and his tail usually brushed over her ankle softly as they spoke. Sometimes she wondered if he had been so physically close to her ancestors. She looked away and he brushed her hair aside. "You have told me nothing of your investigations today."

"I thought I had located another." He moved her chin to face him.

"You have believed that before, why does this time weigh so heavily on your mind?"

"Because it's my fault this one isn't there anymore." Mary tried to keep the tears out of her eyes.

"That is not possible." He said firmly. "But tell me why you believe this."

"It was with the Barnaby family, and as soon as I described it Robert Barnaby, the current generation, knew exactly what I was talking about. Apparently his father had some kind of mental breakdown and one of his delusions was that there was a treasure inside the statue. Somehow he got his hands on something explosive and blew it up. I'm so sorry." She swiped at her eyes.

"To be certain that is a sad loss, but it has nothing to do with you." Mary curled up in the chair, her head resting on the arm nearest to him. One large hand stroked her head gently.

"It happened last year." She looked up at him. "If I had gotten here-"

"There is no certainty that your arrival would have changed anything. Perhaps you would not have awakened me so quickly. Perhaps you would not have had so much success in locating the information that you did." He took her hand and guided her to sit in his lap. It was something that he was beginning to do more and more lately and Mary was becoming more comfortable with it. She adjusted her blanket so that only her blouse was between her and his bare chest. He stroked her back softly. "I blame you for none of this child. If we find no others, being restored is the greatest gift you could have given me."

"I know what it's like to be lonely, but not what it's like to be the ONLY one. You've been so kind to me, I guess I just feel like I should be doing more for you." His arms tightened around her.

"You are blessed with the kindest of spirits, Mary Beeson." He smiled down at her sadly. "Those that we are searching for now are strangers to me. All of the ones that I loved best, my brothers, my mate and our child, were lost to me centuries ago. In the beginning of my frozen time I did not wish to wake. Perhaps, it was a good thing that I had those silent centuries within myself because now I am ready to continue, with others of my own kind, or without if that is the way it must be." 

Mary was relaxed against him, one arm around his body, her other hand resting lightly on his chest.

"I am so sorry for your losses." She said softly, her eyes fixed on his.

"Thank you, child." He pressed her head down against his shoulder gently, Mary closed her eyes and sighed contentedly.

"Were you always so kind to the ladies who lived in this house?" She asked after a few moments of comfortable silence.

"Well, not precisely like this." He laughed softly. "Your family sent their daughters to the Convent of St. Anne to be raised and educated when they were six or seven. When they were around sixteen a suitable marriage was arranged and if the young couple lived here, she was a wife and it would have been improper for me to be alone with her, much less touch her. My mate did not have loved me in the same way that I loved her, but she was always mindful of propriety as well. There were times I wondered if I made you uncomfortable with my desire for closeness."

"Aunt Patrice never believed in touching a child too much. She took care of me, but she wasn't really the kind to give hugs or comfort." Mary spoke rarely about Aunt Patrice. She believed she was loved as a child, she knew she loved her aunt, but she didn't believe that she had ever really gotten her needs met, nor had she been fully prepared for the world. Since everyone else seemed to be, it made her embarrassed about her upbringing. Sitting there, in that warm, safe moment she felt she could tell him anything. "Funny you should mention a convent though, if Aunt Patrice had been able to afford to send me to an all girl's boarding school she would have." 



Heart of Stone Ch. 03



3. To Be With You 

Even though the weather was still warm, the days were growing shorter and it was only a matter of time before the weather turned completely. None of that mattered to Mary though because Mr. Scott had notified her aunt's house had sold. In the beginning Mary hadn't been certain if she should stay, now the thought of going back seemed wrong. She knew one of the reasons for that feeling was Aiden, even if most of that time she told herself that feeling wasn't entirely logical. What couldn't be denied though was that she had grown closer to him with each passing night. 

They still worked to locate the others, though now she knew for certain that four had been destroyed. Those that remained of the eight original names and two more that he had been able to remember were completely unaccounted for. It was as if they never existed. Mary had begun looking for them as fine art pieces, but that was slow and tedious since private collections were just that, private. Their owners didn't tend to post pictures online. She'd posted several messages on discussion boards in hopes someone; somewhere might give her a lead. 

The situation was made even more difficult by the fact that she had no idea what any of the missing ones looked like. She had tried to mention this to Aiden tactfully by asking if all of his kind were so handsome. If she had been looking for a realistic statue of a man everyone reading her message would know what that meant. Since gargoyles were creatures of fantasy to most people, there was no such thing as a "realistic gargoyle". She had hoped to be able to post a description of him. Unfortunately she found out that his kind were a great deal more varied than humans. She would worry about what to do if she found a likely candidate with the right provenance when that happened.

The library was another project that continued to frustrate both of them. Between them, Mary thought they must have explored every inch of the house, including the attic, even though it didn't fit Ambrose's description of 'downstairs'. They did find several of his journals and Mary had started to read through them, hoping that he might have left more clues without realizing it. After Mr. Scott called though, all of that had been put aside for a bit. She went into the village and bought a new dress, the first new item of clothing she had ever purchased for herself without needing someone else's approval. She supposed it would still be considered conservative by most standards, but the soft pink garment hugged her slim frame in all the right places. The short sleeves fluttered lightly around her arms, an impression that was echoed by the knee length skirt. Her hair, which she never wore in any particular style, was twisted into a simple, but flattering bun. She was admiring the effect when Aiden came in. He looked confused at first.

"Are you going out for the evening?" He asked, keeping his distance. Mary had noticed that in the past few weeks he had grown almost possessive. She had become friends with a couple of the ladies from the village and he didn't mind that, but if she met with a man for any reason he seemed almost angry. It was beyond her why, she had no interest in any of them.

"No." She smiled. "I just found out today that Aunt Patrice's house was sold." 

When Mr. Scott first discussed the idea with her she had been reluctant. It was the only home she had ever known, but she knew that she didn't want to go back either. She decided that if she went back, there would be plenty of other houses to choose from.

"You will stay then?" A smile was beginning on his full lips. 

"If you don't mind." She felt a blush color her cheeks. "I think this is your house more than mine."

He smiled broadly and pulled her close. As he lifted her off of her feet his lips came down on hers. Mary whimpered softly at first, her body tense against his. Still, the touch of his mouth made her head spin and her heart race and she slipped her arms around his neck. Slowly he lowered her to her feet again. His lips left hers and Mary gripped his arms, her body trembling as she looked up at him.

"I have frightened you." He said softly, his thumb stroking her deeply blushing cheek. The tip of the single talon grazed her eyebrow lightly. She lowered her eyes and leaned against him.

"At first." Mary said, her voice quivering. His arms wrapped around her.

"And now?" He asked softly, one hand cradled her head. Mary looked up at him.

"Now I don't know what I feel, but I know it isn't fear." He picked her up and walked out onto the balcony. The night was unseasonably warm, but but there was a chill in the air. Mary relaxed against him until she noticed he was heading directly for the railing. "What are you doing?"

"I have something to show you." He said, stepping up onto the railing. Mary hid her face as he stepped off of it as easily as she would step off of the landing on the stairs. She braced herself for the impact with the ground, but it never came. She raised her head and saw the dark ground slipping past below them. His wings beat rhythmically and she pressed closer against him. She had never considered the fact that he flew, let alone that he would take her with him. Mary began to relax in his arms. When she had just about caught her breath he descended into what looked like a pool of unbroken darkness. His arms never lost their stable hold on her as he shifted the orientation of his body. Mary barely felt the change as his feet touched the ground again. He sat down and let Mary rest in his lap.

"Did you think that I would drop you child?" He whispered, a small smile on his lips.

"I guess it's a little silly but I never pictured you flying." Mary said, her eyes adjusting to the darkness slowly. Now that the wind was no longer rushing in her ears she heard the soft sounds of water lapping at a shoreline. She realized that they were sitting in the middle of a small lake on an island that was little more than a pile of rocks. They were surrounded on all sides by trees, and she heard the soft rustling of the breeze in the undergrowth.

"I should have warned you." He spoke softly, letting her look around. The longer they sat there the more Mary's eyes adjusted. The starlight sparkled off the surface of the water and she could pick out the shapes of individual trees and shrubs along the shoreline.

"Where are we?" She asked finally, her voice as quiet as his. She didn't want to break the stillness of the place.

"I do not think it has a name, but we are still on your property. This place is all but inaccessible by ground because it is surrounded by brambles." He stroked her arm, his head rested against hers.

"It's beautiful." She said, feeling her heart start to race again.

"You are beautiful." He lifted her chin and even in the darkness she could see his eyes.

"It's just the dress." Her voice quivered.

"No, it is not. It is the lady wearing it." He leaned close to her, his face inches from hers. "I do not wish to frighten you again." Mary moved forward, her lips brushed his very lightly and lingered. His hand held the back of her neck and his tongue caressed her lips. 

Mary moaned softly and turned to face him more. Her lips quivered and then parted under his gentle insistence. She felt his soft growling moan as much as she heard it, his tongue slipped into her mouth and began to carefully explore. Mary found that she could hardly breathe. It was as if the world itself had stopped while his mouth was on hers. After what seemed like a blissful eternity he moved away from her. Mary relaxed against his chest, her eyes closed. He held her carefully.

"I have brought no other here." He said after several minutes of silence. Mary looked up at him.

"I'm honored." She whispered, unwilling to trust her own voice.

"I am honored. That you would wish to stay, and that you overcome your disgust and revulsion to allow me to be close to you. I swear I will ask you to indulge me no further. Even one so warm would not wish to compromise herself any more, I fear I have pushed you too far already."

"I'm not disgusted by you." Mary was shocked to hear him say such a thing. "And I don't feel compromised." He smiled softly and brushed a stray lock of hair from her face.

"The conventions are well known child. Were it ever to come to light that you have allowed me even this much closeness you would be disgraced. I could not tolerate knowing I was the cause of that."

"I don't know what conventions you mean, and neither does anyone else." Mary was near tears, suddenly afraid of losing him.

"You mean that the knowledge of my kind has been so completely eradicated?" She could barely see his face, but from the sound of his voice she knew he was hurt. Mary stroked his cheek softly.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said it that way." She moved away from him a little. He pulled her close again. 

"You have accepted my presence so easily that sometimes I forget you were shocked by my existence in the beginning." Mary relaxed against him. "I must think on this further."

For a time they sat in silence, though how long Mary couldn't say. She was relaxed against his chest, simply enjoying the closeness and the feeling of his arms around her. His tail wrapped around her leg, gently massaging her calf.

"We should go back." He said finally. She heard the note of regret in his voice.

"Why?" Mary was reluctant to move away from him, knowing at least for these few minutes he hadn't pulled away from her. Her arms tightened around him.

"Because you are shivering child." He smiled down at her and stood again. 

*~*~*~*~*~*

Four nights later Mary woke screaming from a nightmare. 

"Child you are dreaming." Aiden knelt next to her bed and held her eyes with his. After a moment she slipped her arms around his neck and curled up against him. Without hesitating he lay down with her, Mary curled up against his firmly muscled body. He wrapped the blanket around her shoulders and reminded her that she was safe.

"What frightened you so?" He asked once she had calmed.

"I was trapped somewhere, the basement I think." She pressed against him. "And it was so dark and I kept hearing things scuttling and shuffling around me. Then it felt like something was crawling on me." She began to tremble again and his arms tightened around her.

"You are safe now." He murmured softly next to her ear. One hand caressed her back through the light cotton of her nightgown. 

"I was calling out to you in the dream." Mary closed her eyes and melted against his warm body. "I couldn't understand why you weren't there, I knew you would have protected me."

"Until my dying breath child." He kissed the top of her head softly.

"I'm sorry if I disturbed you." She yawned and arched against him.

"You did not. Though if you are no longer afraid I must take my leave."

"Why?" She looked up at him, her arms wrapped more tightly around him. He smiled down at her.

"Because, I wish to preserve your virtue." He kissed her forehead softly. "If I remain much longer I do not trust myself to do so." Mary blushed deeply and brushed her lips over his. He held her close and deepened the kiss. She sighed softly.

"Does the thought frighten you?" He asked softly.

"Yes and no." She looked up at him, her lower lip caught between her teeth. He stroked her back softly and lowered her eyes. "Mostly yes."

"And yet you would trust me?" He brushed the hair from her blushing face.

"Yes." Mary's voice was barely audible. His arms wrapped tightly around her for a long moment. 

"It is late child. Too late for me to explain everything I need to explain and to take the kind of care that I need to take with you." He kissed her softly and got up. "Rest well, my dear one."

The next evening the weather had turned from warm and pleasant to icily cold. Mary curled up in front of the fire with a blanket around her shoulders and a hot cup of tea in her hands. At first she thought she had dreamed Aiden's late-night comfort and the conversation that followed. As the day went on though she knew that she hadn't. She didn't regret anything that she said, but the more she turned it over in her mind, the more nervous she became. She knew the mechanics of the act between two human beings. That seemed woefully inadequate too, but at least it was an idea. 

She jumped when Aiden laid his hand on her shoulder. He looked at her uncertainly for a moment.

"I didn't hear you come in." She got up and curled up in his lap. He adjusted the blanket so that she was as close against his body as possible. Mary sighed softly and his arms tightened around her.

"You were deep in thought." He stroked her back softly, Mary closed her eyes and felt herself melting against him. She wondered how his body could be so warm when he had been out in the cold.

"I was just thinking about last night." She said. His hand hesitated.

"I will hold you to nothing you said child. You had just awakened from a frightening dream. Perhaps, in your fear, you said some things you had not fully considered." From his tone she knew he hoped he was wrong about her feelings.

"It's all I've been able to think about since you kissed me." She looked up into his eyes again and then looked away. "Please don't make light of that." The talons that could have sliced through her flesh with so little effort drew soft patterns over her back. It no longer made her nervous and she sighed, the tension residual tension her body.

"I do not make light of it child. If you were a female of my kind I would not have waited so long to take you as my own. I told you that I was mated before?" Mary looked up at him.

"Yes." Her fingers stroked his chest softly, enjoying the texture of his skin.

"I did not tell you that she never wished to be my mate." He wasn't looking at her.

"Then why did she agree?" Mary asked, a bit surprised that anyone would refuse him. 

"She did not agree." He looked into her eyes. "Among my kind it is not the place of the female to choose. She is chosen by a male and must comply." Mary looked at him curiously.

"So a female doesn't love her mate? Ever?"

"I am not explaining this properly. Usually desire for mating was mutual, but from the moment I first set eyes on Bergit I wanted her. I should have listened when the elders told me not to force her, but I was caught up in selfish desire. I thought I could change her feelings and while she did what I required of her I know with certainty that she never cared for me. In the beginning it did not matter, as time went on though, I could see how much each touch hurt her. Still, I could not compromise my pride enough to release her. After I lost her, I did not think I would ever wish to have another mate, but if I did, I swore that I would be as aware of her desires as I was of my own. Perhaps now that you know I have treated another female so harshly, your view of me has changed. I could not allow you to think on this matter without the full truth to consider." Mary snuggled close against him and he held her tightly.

"I'm surprised, but it doesn't change anything." He lifted her chin so that he could look into her eyes.

"I have taken one by force and regretted it. I cannot bear the thought that I might lose moments like this because of my avarice for more."

"You aren't forcing me. I never thought I could feel so safe with anyone, I just don't know HOW to be more to you." She blushed deeply and hid her face against his chest. 

He lifted her chin and Mary realized that she was trembling. His lips found hers carefully and Mary melted against him. Her lips parted easily when his tongue brushed them. Mary sighed and stroked his tongue hesitantly. The soft growling moan vibrated his chest and his arms tightened around her. Slowly he retreated. Mary realized her heart was pounding, she looked up at him uncertainly. She opened her mouth to speak but he shook his head.

"We both need time to learn the ways of the other, and I wish to give you time to reconsider. If it is still your desire, I will take you as mine on Winter Solstice Night." Mary nodded and relaxed against him again.

In the weeks that followed they spoke at length about what he expected from his mate, she told him what she knew of the ways of husbands and wives and how the world had changed for women. It was clear even early on that it wouldn't be easy to blend the two distinct cultures. Mary was just becoming accustomed to having her own freedom and she resisted the amount of control he thought he should have over her. He resisted her demands to retain her own life. Even though she had the entire day to do what she wanted he still seemed to know if she was hiding something from him. She disliked hiding things, but the modern world made some things necessary that a woman might have been sheltered from in ages past. 

In the first week of December their points of friction had worn smooth and he asked again if she was certain, after there being such tension between them, that she wished to be mated to him. Mary was certain of her feelings, what they hadn't discussed yet was how precisely they would be joined. She could hardly walk into the village church with a gargoyle on her arm and whatever beliefs he had there were no officiants left. When she gathered her courage he explained gently that there was no ceremony, that it was the act of coupling and the intent behind it that bound them together. Mary had blushed deep crimson. She had carefully avoided thinking about the physical aspects of their relationship. She was curious, and she wanted to please him but none of those things kept her heart from racing at the thought. Deep down, she worried the act would be impossible. 

During this quiet time, he had begun to hold her as she fell asleep. At first, Mary had a difficult time relaxing. Even in her long flannel nightgown with the high neck she felt exposed. He patiently whispered reassurances and stroked her back until she relaxed. After several nights she curled up easily against him and drifted off.

Finally, the day arrived. Much as Mary tried to keep herself calm, even Mrs. March noticed that there was something different about her. Mary wasn't exactly certain that the housekeeper believed her denials, but then, it wasn't really the older woman's business. 

Mary sent her home early and tried to eat a bit of dinner, but found nothing was appealing. She took a long, hot bath and put on a simple white cotton chemise. The low neckline tied over her full breasts with a narrow, white silk ribbon. Similar ribbons acted as narrow straps with bows tied at the tops of her shoulders. A row of tiny pearl buttons ran from just under the ribbon to the ruffled hem just below her mid-thigh. The cotton was sheer enough to make any other garments obvious and she wore none. Mary's hands trembled so much when she tried to put her hair up she brushed it out and left it loose around her shoulders. She fussed in the large bathroom for a few more minutes when she heard the balcony door open. Her stomach turned over and she closed her eyes to catch her breath. After a few minutes she had calmed enough to trust her legs. She walked out into the large room.

At first, Aiden didn't notice her. He had turned the electric lights off and was just finishing lighting candles. The room had a soft, golden glow that highlighted his muscular body as he moved. She noticed a large enamel bowl on the bedside table and recognized it as one he had asked her for several days ago. She had wondered why he wanted it at the time, but she hadn't asked. Mary felt rooted to the spot as she watched him. When he finished he noticed her standing there and the smile that touched his lips turned to a look of concern.

"You look terrified child." He crossed the room to her slowly.




Heart of Stone Ch. 03



"I'm sorry." She whispered, finally getting her feet to move toward him. He held her close and Mary hid against his body.

"For what?" He asked and lifted her chin after she stopped trembling.

"I didn't want to be so nervous." She said softly. 

"You need not apologize for something that is so natural. Will you lie down with me?" His voice was soft and he looked down at her with a small smile on his lips. Mary hesitated, she looked over at the wide bed and realized that he had pulled the covers back. She nodded and let him lead her with his hand on her back. She held the short nightgown down and settled under the covers. For the first time, he got under the covers with her. He held her in the same position as he had every evening when she was falling asleep. Mary relaxed slowly, but she did relax.

"You are beautiful." Mary felt the soft rumble of his voice as much as she heard it.

"Thank you." She blushed a little. "I hoped you would like it. I looked at some lacier ones, but none of them seemed right."

"It suits you." His lips found hers with a gentleness that made Mary tremble. She pressed closer against him, getting lost in the sensation. His lips teased hers and Mary let her fingers trace the firm muscles on his chest. "What did you do today?" He asked, his voice barely above a whisper. It had become usual for him to ask soon after coming in, Mary relaxed even further.

"Not too much really. There was a response to one of my messages on a board but it's not very specific and I don't think it will pan out. I found a statuary auction that's coming up in a few months too. They advertise an 'authentic stone gargoyle', I don't know what that means but they should be sending a catalog with pictures." She looked up at him and he smiled softly.

"I had hoped you would take some time to relax." He brushed a stray lock of hair from her face. Mary lowered her eyes.

"I had a hot bath, but I don't think relaxing was a good idea for me today." His arms tightened around her.

"You know that you can change your mind, I will not be angry with you." He spoke softly and Mary felt her body mold to his.

"I don't want to change my mind. I just feel inadequate."

"How?" He rubbed her lower back with his knuckles, she could hear the concern in his voice.

"I don't think I can please you." She whispered.

"I expect nothing of you Mary." She looked up at him, unsure what to make of his statement. "I knew when I first kissed you that you were untouched. The fact that you would agree to be my mate means more to me than I can express in your language." Mary snuggled against his chest, her eyes closed.

"In my language?" She asked after a moment. His hand stroked down over her hip and Mary held her breath as it continued down over one slim thigh and then back up.

"We have a tongue all our own, though it surprises me I have not mentioned it." The tension left her body again and a smile touched his lips.

"I guess I never thought about it. You speak English so well I thought that it was your native language." Mary blushed as she shifted and the hem of the nightgown rose a little.

"Do you see the symbols on my rings?" He turned his head and Mary looked closely at the wide steel hoops They were graduated sizes, the largest in his earlobe and the smallest at the pointed tip of his ear. There were symbols etched into the metal that she could just make out in the soft light. She nodded. "Those are blessings in my own language, as well as my lineage."

"What do they say?" She was curious.

"That I am the eldest son of a warrior chieftain called Darius." His hand moved up over her hip, one large thumb stroked the front of her slightly rounded stomach, just below her navel. Mary gasped and trembled but didn't pull away from him. A smile touched his lips. "He wishes me long life, success in battle, the protection of brave men when the sun shines, and a number of other things."

"Do all males and females wear a symbol like that?" She allowed his lips to tease over hers, he untied one of the bows in the slim ribbon straps, then the other. Mary blushed dark crimson again and held the front of the nightgown over her breasts.

"Only males of my clan, but other clans have other traditions. Where they are placed and the number of them varies by clan and lineage." He touched her now bare shoulders softly. Mary trembled and relaxed, the pads of his fingers were soft against her skin. Her apprehension hadn't gone away, but he touched her so carefully it was impossible to remain tense. 

His lips brushed hers again and then grew gently insistent. Mary moaned softly as his tongue explored her mouth. One hand caressed her ribs, his thumb moving toward her sternum, not touching the underside of her breast, but coming close enough to make Mary arch. At first she resisted when he pressed her onto her back, but she sensed a new hunger in his kiss and his hand pressed a little more firmly. Mary turned slowly, she heard her heart pounding in her ears. He looked down into her eyes and stroked the back of her hand softly. Mary realized she was clutching the cotton tightly, she relaxed her grip and then moved her hand away.

His lips touched her bare shoulders softly, traveling along her collarbone from the right, then the left. Mary moaned softly and squirmed a little as goosebumps rose on her skin. His lips and tongue traveled down the exposed front of her chest, and teased along the edges of the nightgown. Mary caught her lower lip between her teeth, but did stop him when he untied the narrow ribbon. A little whimper escaped her lips when his fingers started working at the pearl buttons. They were too small for him to manage, so he sliced through the threads holding them on. Mary tried not to tremble, but the tension in her body made that impossible. He placed one soft kiss over her heart and then sat up and arranged his wings so that he could gather her into he arms. 

Mary moved carefully and was grateful when he wrapped the blanket around her.

"What did your Aunt tell you about the coupling of lovers?" He asked, his eyes on hers. Mary shook her heard and turned deep red. "I would not ask such a question but you are terrified. I do not doubt your feelings for me, but I do not know how to ease your fears if I do not know what they are." She heard the concern in his voice. Mary was silent for a moment, trying to decide how to frame her answer.

"That it's awful." Her whisper was barely audible. "Painful and humiliating and decent women didn't ever enjoy it. They have to just let their husbands do what they want."

"Oh child," His voice was sad and soft and his arms tightened around her. Mary hadn't realized that she was near tears. "A spinster should never have been entrusted with the care of a young woman." Mary closed her eyes and her tight grip on the chemise relaxed. When Mary had relaxed enough so that her body was molded to his, he began to gently explain. 

"When two trust each other, they can share a great deal of pleasure. All I ask is that you trust me." His talons traced through her hair.

"I do trust you." Mary said, still not able to look at him. Her face hot and red. "I just worry that I...can't. That it will be too painful, and then that I'll disappoint you."

"You will not disappoint me, child. We are very different, neither of us can change that, but I promise that I will not rush you. We have all of tonight, all of tomorrow night, and every night from now on." Finally Mary managed to look up into his eyes.

"I'm sorry." He kissed her softly and Mary's lips parted easily for his gentle tongue. 

"You have nothing to apologize for." His lips nibbled on hers again and Mary felt her body relax completely. She shifted against him, nearly baring one breast. Mary's first instinct was to cover herself again but she found that she wasn't nearly as frightened after hearing his reassuring words. She gave in to the kiss completely. His fingers tugged the fabric down a bit more, uncovering her nipple. She gasped softly against his lips at the little shock of sensation that traveled through her body. She found she couldn't form words to explain her feelings.

"You are an innocent, and I think that your aunt told you things that had no basis in fact. What could you do but believe her when you knew no better?" The back of one knuckle stroked lightly over her breast. Mary gasped softly as the light touch moved down next to her nipple. His lips teased hers and Mary arched as the cool, smooth back of one talon traced around her hard nipple. 

His hand continued down, removing the rest of the buttons. Mary blushed deeply but moved off of his lap, allowing him to take away the cotton garment. He tossed aside the loincloth he always wore as well. Mary could feel her heart beginning to pound again, but this time her apprehension was mixed with excitement. His light touch on her nipple had warmed her in pleasant and unexpected ways. She held the blankets lightly over her breasts.

He kissed her softly and pulled the blanket down. His lips followed the path of the blanket. His tongue traced circles around first one nipple and then the other, drawing soft, gasping moans from Mary. She lay back, her eyes closed, one hand rested on the back of his large head. Her back arched when he suckled her right nipple softly. She pressed her legs together and was shocked by the slick wet feeling on her thighs. His mouth continued teasing her nipples and breasts, Mary barely noticed when he pushed the covers down low, leaving only her newly-shaved mound covered. It had been the one thing he had asked of her and even as nervous as she was Mary had to admit that she liked the smooth feeling.

He growled softly and his mouth continued down, tracing her abdominal muscles with his broad, soft tongue. His tongue swirled around the depression of her navel, making Mary squirm and whimper. He looked up at her from under his heavy brow and realized her whimper was not from discomfort. He went back to exploring her body and when he reached the edge of the blanket he pushed it away completely. Mary squirmed, and moved to cover herself with her hands and her raised knee.

Aiden kissed the back of her hand and some of the tension left her body, he moved back up her body, his lips grazed her skin lightly until he got to the side of her neck.

"Let me taste you." His deep whisper rasped in her ear. He moved her hand aside but Mary resisted when he tried to open her legs. One knuckle rubbed softly on the front of her mound, Mary's eyes widened and her back arched as the sensation spread through her. "Trust me, child." He whispered.

Mary tried but it took a few more minutes of his soft teasing touches and whispered reassurances. He moved down her body again, holding her open wide. Mary blushed deeply and hid her face under the pillows. She could feel him staring at her completely exposed and oozing womanhood. Mary began to struggle but he held her firmly and his soft tongue caressed the crease of her leg, so close to the wet, delicate folds of flesh. She gasped in shock and his tongue tickled her over her open slit. The pressure on the backs of her thighs held her still as his tongue explored, dipping inside a little more deeply each time.

Somewhere on the edge of her awareness she heard his low growl as his tongue found the sensitive little nub hidden deep in her folds. He took the tiny button between his lips and sucked softly, making Mary arch and cry out, her hands gripping the sheets tightly, tension building almost painfully in her lower belly. Just as that tension was about to overwhelm her he pulled away, his tongue lapping and teasing it again. Mary whimpered with need, though need of what precisely she wasn't sure. He applied just a tiny bit more pressure and the gathering tension was too much to bear. She cried out and pressed against his mouth.

For a few delicious minutes the world receded into a pleasure haze and Mary wondered how she had lived so long without knowing that sensation. His tongue teased her softly and the tension left her muscles. Mary found that she no longer struggled against his hands. His tongue moved down and began to press inside her. Mary whimpered sharply and tensed again. Not even her own slim fingers had pressed into that small opening, his tongue felt shockingly large. His grip tightened on her legs and the discomfort faded. Mary moaned deeply and arched up tentatively under him. His tongue moved inside her, building that tension quickly again. Her hips moved up and he pressed down and she was overwhelmed again, though with less intensity than before. He licked her softly and moved next to her again. He kept the covers around his waist and wrapped her up as well. Mary snuggled against him, reveling in the sensation of his warm body against her bare skin.

"Why didn't she tell me?" She whispered after a few minutes.

"I do not know, sweet one." He traced light circles on her back, starting from her shoulders and moving down slowly to just before the swell of her bottom. Mary arched against him. "Perhaps she did not know. You said she found no mate of her own."

"I guess that's true." Mary felt all the tension leaving her body and she drifted off the to sound of his heartbeat. She wasn't certain that she slept, but she did feel comfortable, safe and warm. When she woke again he was pulling her body over his so that she was straddling his hips. Mary looked at him uncertainly. He kissed her lightly and she noticed a new flavor on his lips. It took her a moment to realize it was the taste of her own juices. She jumped when something brushed against her inner thigh. One arm held her still. She put her head down on his chest again when she realized it was his tail.

In the last few weeks Mary had gotten more used to being touched by his thick tail and she was surprised how strong it was, and how delicately he could use it. The blunt tip brushed against her outer lips and Mary looked up at him uncertainly.

"This is how you-?" She cried out when his tail pressed into her folds. She tried to squirm forward but his arm held her tightly and the tip found her little nub. Mary gripped his shoulders tightly and his mouth found hers. She had no doubt that he owned this moment, and for all her assertions of independence she was most comfortable when he was in charge. Her mouth took on a new hunger when his tail started to build her tension again, her hips pressed against him, rocking. When she was right on the edge he pulled back. Mary whimpered with need.

He placed the broad tip at her entrance and pressed firmly. She cried out in pain as he started to press inside her. His arms held her tightly. She heard him telling her to relax, to breathe and to trust him.

"Stop! Please!" She sobbed. Mary felt like she was being torn, and that sensation terrified her. He stopped, but kept himself buried deep inside her. He rubbed her lower back softly, Mary felt her body relaxing, and the pain easing. His lips found hers again and slowly he pressed forward. She whimpered and trembled but didn't struggle anymore. Finally, he was as deep inside her as her body would allow. He moved carefully inside her. The pain faded quickly and Mary moaned against his chest, she pressed down hesitantly. He smiled and took her carefully, building that tension again and then releasing it, leaving Mary trembling. He pulled out of her carefully and Mary whimpered. He laid her on the mattress but Mary held on to him.

"Don't go." Her voice was weak, her tone plaintive. He smiled down at her.

"Just for a moment, child." He dipped a soft cloth in a bowl of water and cleaned off the end of his tail. He rinsed the cloth and then turned to her. "The herbs in the water will soothe your ache." He pulled the covers back and Mary looked away but let him open her legs wide again. She jumped when he placed the cool, damp cloth over her sore opening. She relaxed against his hand. He cleaned her gently and the ache did ease. Mary opened her eyes in time to see the blood that covered the cloth. Her stomach turned and she groaned. He rinsed the cloth and held it against her again, Mary shivered slightly. He took the cloth away again and then gathered her into his arms. Mary snuggled close.

This time, Mary did sleep for awhile. She awoke to the sensation of his hand caressing her back gently, but absently. She realized that he had either blown out most of the candles, or they had gone out on their own. When she looked up at him, his eyebrows were drawn together.

"Are you alright?" She asked softly. He smiled at her.

"I should be asking that of you." He smiled and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. Mary moved a bit, reconnecting with her own body. She tried not to let on that she felt a dull, throbbing ache between her legs.

"I'm fine." She said softly, relaxing against him. She was still surprised to feel the side of his bare hip against her body, but she liked the warm feeling of his skin. Her hand stroked down over his stomach. His eyes closed as her fingertips explored the firm muscles, then the depression of his navel. Mary fingers touched him lightly, drifting lower. His soft, growling moan took her by surprise, his large hand closed around her wrist. She looked up at him, confused. "I'm not allowed to touch you?"

"I know that you are curious child, and I have dreamed of your touch as I have dreamed of nothing else in these long years." He kissed her palm. "After you may explore to your heart's content." 

Mary blushed and squirmed uneasily.

"Are you in pain?" He asked softly. She lowered her eyes and he kissed her forehead softly. "Lie on your back." He sat up, keeping the covers wrapped around his waist.

"No." Mary retreated from him. He looked at her curiously.

"We discussed obedience, did we not?" He stroked her cheek softly. There was no threat in his voice, but there was a definite expectation that she would comply or explain.

"That water is-" Mary found she didn't want to say it. "Is dirty." He smiled softly.

"I changed it while you slept." He stroked her blushing cheek softly. His voice was soft, but his tone was firm. "Move closer child." Mary hesitated but slid over. She opened her legs. He pulled the blanket down and Mary turned away. Her arms covered her breasts and he bent one knee up, opening her even wider. He pressed the cool, damp cloth over her entrance again. Mary gasped sharply and squirmed until her body became used to the cold sensation and the pressure of his hand. She relaxed and moaned softly as the ache eased. Mary turned a little more, so that she was facing him.

"Where did you find herbs this time of year?" She asked softly. He took the cloth away, rinsed it and put it back in place. She gasped again and shivered but didn't try and pull away.

"I collected them this summer." Mary looked up at him. He read the question in her eyes and smiled. "They have other uses. It is the way of my kind to heal ourselves with herbs. My mother came from a clan of healers, and she taught me some of their ways." He took the cloth away again and got back into bed. Mary snuggled close.

"How come this bed fits you so well?" It was a silly question, but it was one that had been playing on her mind since that first night he comforted her from her nightmare.

"Because it is my bed." He was on his side now, Mary snuggled comfortably against his chest. "Ambrose told me that as soon as our situation was know this room was occupied by the master of the house." 

"Why did you need a bed? I thought you spent your days outside." Her eyes were closed.

"I do, as do all of my kind. But, when I spent intimate time with my mate we were more comfortable here." She heard the small smile in his voice. 

"Do you want it back?" She was drifting near sleep again, but it was still early. She was sure the deep relaxation and the easing of the ache had something to do with it. "I mean I could move my things to some other room. There are at least a dozen." His chuckle rumbled softly.




Heart of Stone Ch. 03



"One might say that I do have it back." He kissed her softly. 

"True." A blush bloomed on Mary's cheeks. "I guess I haven't started thinking in those terms yet." 

He kissed her softly and then his lips took on a new firmness, Mary trembled and felt her body respond to his touch. His fingers squeezed her breasts gently and she gasped and arched against him when his talons tickled her hard nipples. Mary could feel the now familiar wetness growing between her legs again, she pushed aside memories of the painful sensation of being opened by his tail and gave herself over to the pleasure of his touch. Mary moaned against his mouth, her tongue stroking his. Aiden pulled one of the pillows down and moved her onto her back with her hips propped up on it. The position and her relaxation made it impossible to keep her legs together. He moved over her and settled between them and Mary suddenly felt very small and very scared. His mouth left hers and he looked down at her. The soft candlelight caught his eyes and she saw the worry in them.

"What?" She asked, shifting uneasily under him.

"I fear I will injure you beyond your ability to forgive." Mary kissed his arm, because it was all she could reach.

"I'm scared, I can't hide that." She was blushing and she felt her heart pounding but she forced herself to look up at him. "But you know I trust you."

"I do not question that child." He kissed the side of her neck softly and Mary relaxed. One hand stroked over her chest, her fingers finding the tip of his right nipple and he growled softly as she pinched. His lips found hers again, Mary's tongue caressed his lips and his mouth became hungrier again. He rested on his arm, the other hand explored her carefully and Mary arched under his touch. When his talons lightly stroked over her slightly open lower lips Mary gasped and felt her juices building more quickly. She was breathing faster when he looked down at her again. "Mary-"

"Please." Her heart was pounding, and it was all that she was able to say. He kissed her softly and slid down between her legs. Mary relaxed and opened her legs wider when his lips brushed the front of her mound.

One hand rested on his head, the fingers on her other hand caressed the smooth surface of his curling horns. His tongue teased the nub of her pleasure and Mary drew a sharp breath, she pressed forward against his mouth. He teased her with feather-light flicks of the very tip of his tongue and firm, licking strokes that made her tremble. He pressed the tip of his tongue inside her again and this time the discomfort faded as quickly as it registered. He waited until she was on the edge and then pulled away.

His mouth traveled back up the front of her body and his mouth took possession of hers. Mary felt something hard and impossibly wide pressing lightly against her entrance, her eyes widened as he rubbed against her softly. He began to press harder and Mary gripped his shoulders when the pressure became painful. She whimpered sharply. He held her in place and the terrible fear that had gripped her in the bathroom returned.

"I love you child, do not forget that." He whispered softly and pressed hard against her. Mary tensed and cried out. One hand slid under her body and gripped one shoulder, holding her in place. He pushed harder and the tearing feeling returned, only it was worse this time. Her fingernails bit firmly into his back and he continued the hard, painful pressure. Mary started to cry and he growled and pressed against her forcefully. The pain overwhelmed her and Mary screamed and started to struggle. He held her in place and growled again, pushing deeper into her body, tearing her further. He was moving deeper inside her, despite Mary's pained cries. When he was a deep inside as her body would allow he stopped and cradled her against his chest. Mary's sobs were shaking her body and he held her until she quieted again. 

When he started to move inside her the pain hadn't subsided fully and her tears started again. He held her tightly and took his pleasure despite Mary's pained cries. Finally the agony receded and she clung to him, feeling the sensations start to change. She heard his pleasure sounds, felt her body starting to relax. He pressed deep inside her and the animalistic growl frightened Mary. It was the first time since she met him that he seemed more beast than man. Her arms and legs tightened around him and she whimpered with fresh pain as his hot semen stung her torn flesh. He cradled her gently and carefully pulled out of her. By the time he retreated from her completely, Mary felt lightheaded and she shivered against him. 

She closed her eyes and let him move her body. He laid her back against mattress. She whimpered sharply when he pressed the cool cloth against her. On the edges of her consciousness she could hear him whispering, though she couldn't understand what he was saying. She felt the tension leaving her muscles as he washed her gently. She could feel him staring at her swollen, bruised vulva. Mary was almost beyond being embarrassed by the close inspection. The throbbing ache began at her knees and moved up into her lower stomach. The prospect that he would relieve a small part of some of that ache was enough to keep her exposed to his eyes. He pressed the cool cloth against her again.

"Open your eyes child, so I know that you can still look at me." Mary forced her eyes open, her hand trembled as she stroked his cheek. "Have I broken your trust?"

"No." She moved closer, trembling. She forced a small smile. "I'm cold though." He pulled the blanket around her and Mary pressed closer to his warm body. She closed her eyes and relaxed against him. After a few minutes he took the cloth away. Mary pressed close against him, the feeling of safety she felt in his arms was unchanged. She squirmed slightly when she felt the uncomfortable sticky wetness on her thighs. She moved away from him reluctantly.

"Do you wish me to leave?" He asked softly.

"That's the last thing I would want. I just need to use the bathroom." She kissed his lower lip softly. Mary found her nightgown and wrapped it around herself. Each step reawakened the ache in her body. When she returned he had a few more of the candles were glowing. The light in the room was still soft, but it was a little brighter than before. She curled up in his arms and tossed the nightgown aside. His fingers slipped inside the waist of her panties.

"I was enjoying the feeling of your skin." His voice was soft, but what he meant was clear.

"I," She looked up into his eyes, hesitant to tell him. "I'm bleeding." She said it softly and hid her blush against his shoulder.

He held her tightly and Mary relaxed, her body molded to his. He pulled the blankets around her shoulders. 

"Don't leave." She said softly.

"I won't, dearest one." He looked down at her, one hand slid into the panties to cup her bottom. Mary blushed a little but stayed where she was.

"I mean in the morning." She said. He chuckled softly.

"I must child. You would not wish to awake to an object of stone, but I give my word that I will not leave until I absolutely have to." He stroked her hair, and Mary drifted off again. This time, her sleep was much deeper than before.



Heart of Stone Ch. 04



Author's Note:

First of all, I want to thank all of you who commented on the previous chapters. I'm so glad that people are enjoying this story. 

One thing I would like to address that's been mentioned a couple of times now, is that there is a certain level of discomfort with Aiden referring to Mary as 'child'. Part of it is his age in comparison to hers (as one of you suggested), the other part is that Gargoyle culture is very paternalistic. That comes out a bit more in this section, and will become even more clear as the story goes on. I would tend to call him a loving Dominant with a few issues to work through. :) I hope you all continue to enjoy!

psyche b

*~*~*~*~*~*

4. A Period of Adjustment

When Aiden returned the next night Mary was curled up in bed. She had changed the sheets that morning, but she spent most of the day closeted in the large room nursing the deep ache. As soon as she saw him Mary snuggled against his chest. For a few moments, he held her in silence. One hand stroked her back softly and the other wandered over her body, stroking her legs and arms. His lips found hers and Mary pressed close against him. It seemed like it had been an eternity since he left. Even though she had been sleeping part of the time, she still missed him. 

"Are you ill this evening?" He asked when her body was molded to his.

"No. I was just a little tired." She didn't even sound confident to her own ears. He lifted her chin.

"Are you are in pain?" Mary saw the concern in his eyes as clearly as she heard it in his voice.

"No." She said quickly.

"I cannot abide being lied to, child. But, I know that your shyness runs deep so I will ask again." Her head was held lightly in one powerful hand, the only way to avoid his eyes would have been to close hers. "Are you in pain?"

"Yes." Mary whispered, a little shiver coursing through her. He held her close and allowed her to hide her face against his chest. She relaxed against him.

"Are you still bleeding?" One hand drifted down over her back, down over one slim thigh and up under the hem of the nightgown. Mary tensed when his fingers reached into the waistband of her panties.

"Not anymore." Mary's voice trembled.

"Good." He started to tug them down.

"No!" Mary's fear was obvious in her voice. She pulled away but his arm locked around her waist. "Please, I can't."

"Mary." His tight grip made it impossible to struggle away from him, his eyes held hers. "I will satisfy myself that you are not seriously injured, but I will do no more than that."

"I'm alright, I just ache a little." Mary knew struggling with him was a waste of energy she didn't really have at that moment. She rested her head against his chest.

"I have never known you to remain in bed through the day, not even when you are ill. That you did so today concerns me." His grip loosened a bit, then a bit more when it became clear that she wasn't going to pull away from him again. He stroked her back softly. His hand went to her panties again and he tugged. "Lift your hips." Mary bit her lower lip, but she couldn't quite force herself to move. He kissed the top of her head. "I do not wish this to be a test of wills child, but it is as much about obedience as it is about injury." Obedience and honesty were the two most important obligations a female to her mate. At that moment, she wanted to protect him from the truth and protect herself from his close inspection.

"I'm embarrassed." She couldn't look up into his eyes, but she hadn't moved to remove his hand from her panties either. His large hand spread out over her hip.

"I am your mate, child. You will learn that you have no need to hide from me." He tugged lightly at her panties again and Mary lifted her hips. He slid them down her legs and Mary moved off of his lap. He opened her legs wide, and gently tugged her open completely. Mary whimpered sharply, his lips brushed her inner thighs and she tried to relax. After a few moments more he let her go and pulled the nightgown down again. Mary snuggled against his chest and he stroked her back.

"You are in more than a little pain." He said finally. Mary couldn't find her voice, she simply nodded. He kissed her softly and then left her. She could hear him stirring up the fire so she left her panties where he had tossed them and watched him from the doorway. He smiled and held out his hand to her, Mary moved toward him and let him wrap her in his arms.

"Why did you feel you had to lie?" He asked when she relaxed.

"Because telling you how much pain I'm in makes it sound like I regret it," She whispered. He lifted her chin and kissed her lightly. "And I don't."

"It is a simple reality, child. Not an accusation." He sat down and she moved to curl up in his lap but he held her back. "Remove this first." He fingered her nightgown and Mary blushed deeply. She started to lift the hem of the long nightgown but hesitated. She handed him the blanket and he smiled. It still took Mary several minutes to undress as he watched, but the feeling of his warm body against hers and the reassurances he whispered helped her relax. He wrapped the blanket around her and Mary melted into him.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary resumed her routine after a day of healing. When she received the auction catalog three weeks later, she actually thought that she might have a good candidate. The carving was just as fine as Aiden's appeared to be and the bit of research she had done on the owner told her that it was at least possible. When Aiden saw the photos he agreed. It was a large object, and an expensive one, but her Aunt's lawyer had severely underestimated the accounts that went with the estate. Even at three times the estimate, it was barely a drop in the bucket.

For the next few days Mary found herself at loose ends. She filled her time with reading and took long walks on the trails in the woods. On returning from one of those walks Mary tripped on a broom Maggie left in the hall. In the effort to catch herself she stumbled against the side of the stairway. She felt a panel give and and then open. She knew that Mrs. March had the day off, and Maggie had left an hour ago. Carefully she opened the panel. As soon as it was open wide enough Mary saw a light switch and turned it on. At first, nothing happened, but with a soft buzz a chain of lights came on, illuminating a stairway.

Mary got a flashlight, just in case, and the ring of keys from the library and started down the stairs. She knew she must be going down into a part of the cellar, but aside from a thick layer of dust, this part looked recently maintained. The stairs were a similar stone as the ones leading down into the main part of the basement, but these were much more roughly assembled. Mary placed her feet carefully as she made her way down the twisting staircase. She heard nothing except her feet on the stairs and her breathing. The silence made her heart beat faster, but she forced herself to move slowly. Finally she made it to the bottom and found herself in a short hall. The thought of this being yet another wine cellar flashed through her mind, but it hardly seemed likely that it would be hidden behind a secret panel.

Mary walked down the a short hall to a heavy oak door, grasped the handle and pressed on the thumb lever. The mechanism protested with a grinding sound and the hinges reciprocated with a loud screech, but the door opened. The smell of old, dusty paper hit her first. Mary turned on the flashlight and swept the beam into the dark space. She walked into the silent space and turned two small, green lamps that sat on either end a long wooden table. 

The light was dim, but it was enough to let her see that she was standing in a large library. Some of the shelves faded back into darkness. She directed the flashlight beam toward the back of the room and barely saw an enormous portrait on the murky back wall. It was similar to one that hung on the the wall in the sitting room. There were three other tables like the one she was standing in front of. She turned on the other lamps and the room brightened with green-tinged golden light. Mary started scanning the books next. Some were very very old and bound in unfamiliar leathers.

Most of the titles were in languages she couldn't read, a few were in English, but the titles still meant nothing to her. Mary glanced at her watch and realized that Aiden would be waking soon and he preferred her to be there when he did. Mary left the lights on and turned to leave, but she stopped when she noticed an envelope on the first table. She perched on the edge of the chair and picked up the thick envelope. When she opened it she realized that the letter wasn't very long, it was just that the paper was unusually fine.

"To Mary Beeson (or her descendant):" It began. The handwriting was shaky in places, but whoever wrote it seemed to have gone to a great deal of trouble to make it neat. She looked ahead to the end and saw that it was signed 'Ambrose'. Ambrose began by introducing himself and apologizing that he hadn't been able to bring her here from the beginning. Then, he began to explain about Aiden and his situation. The final page advised her what he had tried to release Aiden, and suggested what she might try next, after gaining some competence with magic. He had instructions for that as well. 

Mary reread the letter and set it on the table in front of her. She glanced at her watch and realized that it was already after dark. She left all the lights on and made her way up the stairs as quickly as she safely could. She met Aiden coming down the main stairs and he looked displeased. He had never hurt her, or even threatened to, but he had told her that in his culture it was acceptable for a male to punish his mate physically. Neglecting such a simple request was certain to anger him.

"Mary-" The tone in his voice made her tremble.

"Please don't be upset with me." Mary could feel her heart starting to pound. She was standing one stair below him and while she always had to look up at him, she felt even smaller than usual at that moment.

"Child, I dislike waking alone, you know this." His large hand cradled the side of her head.

"I know, and I'm sorry. I lost track of time." Mary knew she should just tell him. Her racing emotions were scrambling her logical thought. He looked past her shoulder into the entry.

"And what is so important that you forget the needs of your mate? Or should I say who?" His voice was soft, but his eyes were intense when they turned back to hers. Mary didn't think she was going to be able to speak.

"I found it." She managed to whisper. His eyes narrowed.

"Found what?" He asked. Mary took a trembling breath.

"The second library." She said finally, lowering her eyes.

"Are you certain?" He lifted her chin, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. She began to smile as well.

"As certain as I can be." She grasped one of his large hands in both of hers. "Please, come and see." In that moment she needed to feel forgiven by him.

He followed her and at first she thought he wasn't going to be able to get through the small door but he managed. His taloned feet gave him more stability on the rough stairs and without a question or hesitation he picked her up and carried her to the bottom. The room itself awed him. It wasn't as fine as the rooms upstairs, but he walked the length of it, caressing some of the books gently as he passed by. When he turned back to her Mary was holding the letter.

"It's from Ambrose." She said. "I should have waited to read it-"

He pulled her close and Mary fell silent as she rested against his chest.

"No, child. You have never given me a single reason to doubt your feelings and yet, for a moment, I did." He stroked her back softly and Mary relaxed and settled closer.

"I guess I don't understand that. Even when I first woke you it seems like my world revolved around you. It's hard to say out loud, I just thought it was obvious." She blushed deeply, her body molded to his. Mary had begun to shiver in the cool air and he wrapped his wings around her.

"Bergit had another. He would have taken her as his mate, but ours is a hierarchical society. When I declared my intention he could do nothing but step aside." Mary sensed there was more, she waited for him to continue on his own. When he didn't she asked. 

"Was that the end of it? I mean, he just accepted that Bergit was yours?" She stroked his back softly. 

"No. Three days after Bergit and I mated I found the two of them together." He fell silent again, and held her tighter.

"What did you do?" Mary was almost afraid to ask, but she had to know.

"The only thing I could have done to save face, I challenged him and I killed him in combat. It was my right to kill her as well, but I chose to let her live. I beat her that night, and any time she showed the slightest inclination toward disobedience." Mary stiffened against his chest. "I killed everything in her that drew me in the first place. We began a cycle of hurting each other that continued until her death. I shudder to think of what we were doing to our son, and I fear making the same mistake with you." He held her tighter and Mary placed a soft kiss over his heart.

"I'm not her. You didn't force me to be your mate and I don't want to run away from you." Her voice barely audible as she looked up into his eyes, her lower lip caught between her teeth. 

"I know child." His hand pressed her head against his chest. He unwrapped his wings and lifted her. Mary wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck She heard him turning the lights off. "And I fear that my insecurities will drive you away."

"Don't you want to explore?" She asked.

"Very much." He kissed her softly. "But this room has nothing to do with what I wish to explore." He carried her up the stairs but put her down so that he could get through the small door. As soon as the lights were out and the panel closed he lifted her again. This time Mary lay relaxed in his arms and he brought her back up to their bedroom. Mary had learned that when he was was most uncomfortable talking about something from his past was when he seemed to need physical contact the most. 

He set her on her feet and Mary realized she was still gripping the letter. She tossed it on the desk and let him lead her by the hand over to the bed. He sat down and Mary straddled his lap, her arms wrapped around his neck, her body pressed against his firmly muscled chest. One arm held her tightly and the other hand caressed her back softly. Her lips found the side of his neck, she felt as much as heard his soft groan. His arm tightened and he found her lips with his. Mary's body responded to the hunger in his kiss, her tongue caressed his. When she pressed down against his hips she felt the bulge of his erection. The size of him still made Mary tremble but the desire to feel him inside her again was growing too.

In the weeks since they first mated, Aiden had taught Mary to pleasure him with her hands and her mouth, and after initial hesitation she was a curious and willing student. She found that watching him enjoy her touch excited her almost as much as his soft touches did. In those days that surrounded Christmas, he limited those touches to soothing caresses. As time passed though, she lost some of the crushing shyness that plagued her at first and the discomfort in her body subsided while her desire for his touch grew.

He slid his hands up under her sweater, Mary pulled her arms out of it and tossed it aside. She reached behind herself and unhooked her bra, but she still hesitated to take it off. He pulled it away from her body carefully and Mary blushed a little as she looked down at her hard nipples. Her hands moved softly over his chest. He drew one needle-sharp talon lightly over her breasts, making her nipples harden even more and sending pleasant shivers chasing after each other down her spine. Mary closed her eyes and moaned when his lips found her shoulder. The soft and sharp sensations commingled and it drove her to distraction. Mary gripped his shoulders tightly and pressed down firmly against the thick pillar of his shaft. His teeth nipped at her shoulder and Mary arched into him more. Finally she could take no more. She gripped his hands and moved off of his lap, laying back on the bed and pulling him over her.

Aiden looked down at her and Mary stroked his cheek. Even though she had intended to ask for what she needed she found she didn't have the words. He kissed the inside of her wrist softly and settled next to her.

"You need not prove your commitment to me." He held her close and Mary noticed the chill of the room for the first time. He enfolded her in his arms.

"Why don't you think that I could want you just because you are my mate and I love you?" Mary felt her heart racing as she said it.

"I do not question that, child." He kissed her shoulder softly. "But I know how badly I injured you. I do not regret taking you as mine, but I do regret hurting you."

"I don't regret a single moment of that night, or the days that followed." Mary kissed him, sucking on his lower lip lightly. He moaned and tightened his arms around her. "I want to be your mate as a female of your own kind would be." Mary whispered.

"Gargoyle females are not so fragile." A soft pleasure growl rumbled through his chest when Mary opened his belt. His talons made the button and zipper on her jeans impossible. He had ruined one pair early on when he became frustrated and since then Mary opened them herself.

"Please." Mary whispered. She nipped his ear and slid one hand inside the loosened loincloth. Mary knew that one of her small hands stroking his thick shaft would do nothing but tease him, she also knew that deep down, as much as she wanted him she was still anxious.

"Finish undressing." He grasped her wrist and got up, shedding his single garment in seconds. Mary hesitated with her back to him. She was often naked with him, but she very rarely removed anything but a robe and usually then she was already hidden by a blanket. He was behind her in several long, silent strides.

"I'm sorry." Mary said softly. He moved her hands aside and pushed her pants and panties down, she stepped out of them obediently and he held her close.

"No need for apologies." He kissed the side of her head softly and Mary relaxed against him, his shaft pressed against her back. A shiver of need wrapped in nervousness shot through her but when he pulled the covers back Mary took his hand and got in, drawing him in with her.

Mary relaxed as soon as he pulled the covers up around her shoulders. His lips found hers and his hands went back to exploring her body. Mary forgot about her nervousness as the reactions of her body took over. She pushed him over onto his back and began to stroke him with both hands, her head moving down underneath the covers, licking and sucking at as much of the head as possible. She had learned to take the flared head into her mouth, but was unable to take any more than that. The movements of her hands and the pressure of her thumbs on the underside of his massive shaft brought him very close. His gasping growls told her that. One hand pushed her head away and the other pulled her body back up. He pushed her legs open and held them there while his tongue explored. Mary arched her back and squirmed against the bed as his broad tongue attacked her dripping opening. She was shocked by the speed at which he brought her over the edge of pleasure. She arched her back and pressed against his mouth, holding onto his curling horns and rocking her hips against his mouth until the intensity of the sensation subsided.

When her grip relaxed, Aiden pulled away and moved over her, his lips finding first one nipple, then the other and then her lips. Mary's back arched under him, her body relaxed, her fingers tracing the muscles of his chest. One of his hands slid under her waist and she took a deep breath, expecting to feel him start to push inside her. She was surprised when he moved onto his back, pulling her over him.




Heart of Stone Ch. 04



"What-?"

"Take me inside you." His low whisper sent a shiver down her spine, as it always did when she heard such intensity in it. She straddled his hips and allowed him to guide her into position. His eyes were intense and she pressed against him as firmly as she could. Her body resisted at first, but as she pressed against him and focused on relaxing those muscles she felt the broad head press deeper inside her. The discomfort began to grow and turned to pain, stopping Mary from moving further.

"I can't." She whispered, the throbbing pain making her tense and tremble. 

"You can." His thumb rubbed the front of her mound and his other hand pressed firmly, ignoring Mary's whimpers and sharp cries until she was completely filled. Mary rested against him, trembling. She could hear the soft rumble of his voice and feel the tiny movements inside her. He brushed away her tears, stroked her back lightly and urged her to move her hips. 

At first, it was a tentative motion and his shaft barely moved inside her. His grip tightened around her hip and the pain of his talons sinking into her flesh competed with sensation of his thick shaft tearing and bruising her opening. She began to move faster and more firmly as the discomfort passed more quickly than the first time. She was so close, but it wasn't quite enough to bring Aiden the release that he needed. He grasped her wrist and turned her quickly onto her back, Mary whimpered sharply and trembled at the intensity of his eyes as he thrust hard and fast into her. He pressed her knees back and took what he needed while Mary tried not to cry, by the time his hot seed stung her sore passage she was shivering under him, reduced to whimpering. Mary curled up on her side as soon as he withdrew from her. She reached out for him and for a few minutes he cradled her silently.

Mary relaxed slowly and as she connected with her body again she realized that though she ached, she was not as sore as she had been the first time. When Aiden shifted she wrapped her arms around him tightly.

"You are bleeding, child. I will return to you in a moment." He kissed the top of her head and unwrapped her arms. She could hear him running water and Mary curled up a little tighter. She had begun keeping the big enamel bowl and a jar of his healing herbs in the bathroom. Aiden was still learning the limits of her skin and Mary found that she was often scratched or bleeding afterward. In the beginning Mary had actively resisted his ministrations, or tried to. When Aiden became insistent there was very little that Mary could do to deter him, especially after he reminded her of her duty to obey. As time when on she became more comfortable with it, now when she saw him approaching the bed carrying the bowl she was just glad to see him return. She moved close to him when he sat down.

"I forget how fragile your skin is." Mary winced but held still as he washed the deep scratches on her hip gently with a soft cloth and warm water.

"That stings." She shivered against him, her teeth clenched.

"I know child. It is bad enough that I forget myself and injure you, I do not wish to see you become ill because of my forgetfulness." She turned so that he could tend the scratches on the side of her bottom. Once he was satisfied that she was no longer bleeding he opened her legs wide and pushed her knee back, exposing her completely. Mary turned away and bit back a soft whimper, a deep blush heated her cheeks but she didn't struggle with him. She knew she was bruised, but didn't feel as torn as the first time. His touch wasn't as painful as it was before and Mary relaxed.

"Would you do this for a female of your own kind?" She asked in a whisper.

"With Bergit in the beginning, I would have tried to. I would have probably let her resistance turn my mind away from it." The cloth moved softly, cleaning their fluids from her inner thighs before moving on to her more tender places. Mary closed her eyes and felt the residual tension leave her body.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next day Mary was a sore, but not confined to her room or bed. She began exploring the library and looking for the books Ambrose had recommended for her to begin with. Finding them was a challenge in itself. The books upstairs were sorted into fiction and non-ficiton, and then alphabetically by author's last name, she could determine no clear way that the books down here were organized. Mary began by making lists of title and location, Aiden might be able to tell her if it made sense in some other context.

The auction was two weeks away and she was still toying with the idea of going to London. If she went she would have to be gone overnight. Aiden said he would accept her going she knew he wasn't happy about it. He was becoming more comfortable with the modern world, but he held tightly to certain traditions. In the end Mary decided to bid by phone, she realized that even if he would let her go without and argument she wouldn't be able to sleep without him.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary won the auction easily and she began to make arrangements for the statue's arrival. The picture, even though it was clear enough to tell that it was likely one of Aiden's kind, provided little other information about it and Mary was anxious to see it on the balcony. So anxious that she hired an engineer to make certain that the balcony would support the weight. When she told Aiden he was not as thrilled as she was with her idea of where to place it. There were two weeks before the statue was to be delivered and in that time they had debated the issue angrily several times, but he had refused to tell her why he was so against it.

"I will not allow another so close to our private space." The statement came out of the blue. She was laying on his chest after making love and his large hands were roaming over her back, his talons tracing light patterns on her skin. She sensed that he was relaxed enough that they might be able to discuss it without argument.

"Is it our space that you feel like you have to protect, or is it me?" Mary arched against him comfortably. She was much more accustomed to him being inside her and the forceful way he took his pleasure, but she still ached after. For some reason, this was the most comfortable position she had found.

"You are mine. If I were to allow another male to be so close to you from the very beginning it would give him the impression that you are my concubine, not my mate." His hand moved down between her spread legs, his talons tickled her inner thighs. Mary squirmed against him, the sensation bringing a little smile to her lips in spite of what he was saying. Her aching opening quivered.

"You didn't tell me about that." She kissed the side of his neck softly, and his arm tightened around her. "If a male does with his concubine what he does with his mate, how does anyone know the difference?"

"A concubine is stolen from a rival clan, won in battle or is the female child of a concubine. She is branded as property, much as your kind might mark an animal." His tail stroked her pouting lower lips and Mary moaned softly, her eyes squeezed shut. "It is understood that any who ask her owner might use her. He might ask a fee for her services, he might not."

"I'm not branded." The thought made her tremble, she opened herself wider to his gently probing tail. 

"But you are human. When we were cursed your kind was the ultimate rival." He pushed the tip of his tail inside her and Mary whimpered softly. "You will find a different place for the other." As if to punctuate his statement he withdrew his tail and then pressed it inside deeper. Mary gasped and bit down on her lower lip. 

"I'll find a different place." She moaned softly and squirmed against his invading tail, just as she was getting used to it, needing it, he pulled it away. "Don't-"

He turned her on her back, rubbing the broad head of his newly hard member against her entrance. Mary's need struggled with her apprehension. She reached down between them and stroked him.

"Let me-" He grasped her wrist and pinned it next to her head.

"You will submit." His voice was soft and his lips were gentle on hers. Mary closed her eyes and trembled under him.

"I'm sore." Her voice was a nervous whisper. The broad head rubbed lightly against her, Mary arched her back and moaned.

"I know." He pressed forward slowly and Mary whimpered as her body yielded. As he pushed deeper she struggled to pull her pinned arm away from him. "Relax, child. Trust me not to hurt you." He held her wrist in place but stopped advancing, his lips moved softly over the side of her neck. The tension drained away as his lips moved. He rocked softly against her until she was completely, achingly full, he kept up a constant light pressure on her cervix that made Mary arch and squirm.

His lips found hers and Mary melted, moving her hips tentatively. He looked down into her eyes and began to move gently, drawing almost his whole length out and pressing in just as deeply again. Aiden continued his slow, torturous rhythm until Mary was clawing at the sheets, begging for more. He made her wait for what seemed like an eternity before giving her the release she craved. She felt him pulse inside her while she was floating and she knew that he had gotten his release too.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary stood in front to the new statue in the fading light and frowned. It looked good sitting in the garden, and now she was even more certain that this was another like Aiden. What she hadn't been expecting was that this was a female. She looked at the photo again and realized that the angle and position of the statue somehow hid the statue's more than ample breasts. She was still staring when she heard Aiden's leathery wings flapping. His arms slipped around her waist and his lips found the side of her neck. She had begun sending Mr. and Mrs. March home before the sun went down, their cottage was on the grounds, but far enough away that she was comfortable Aiden wouldn't be seen.

"You smell wonderful this evening, child." He murmured next to her ear. Mary turned to snuggle against his chest.

"So do you." Mary whispered, she held him tighter than usual and he stroked her back.

"Something wrong, dear one?" She felt the rumble of his soft baritone as much as she heard it.

"No." Mary lied. He held her in silence a few moments longer.

"This is the new one then." He said finally, releasing her and standing up again.

"Yes." It was the best Mary could manage. She stepped away from him. 

"She's definitely one my kind." He stepped closer, inspecting the figure carefully. Mary felt her heart start to beat faster and a flush rise to her cheeks.

"Do you know her?" Mary spoke more quickly than she intended. Her arms were folded over her chest.

"No. I knew few females who were not of my clan." His eyebrows were drawn together as he looked at her. Mary's mind raced to come up with something to say that would head off his next logical question.

"How do you know she's not of your clan?" She asked, trying to be still and keep her eyes on his.

"Because of the shape of her body. Males and females of my clan are warriors, this one does not have the muscle mass of a warrior." He walked around the statue and stopped on the same side Mary was on. "The shape of her ears suggest she and my mother were of the same clan, but I can tell no more with her in this state. What is disturbing you so?"

"Nothing, I'm getting cold-" Mary turned to go in but he grasped her arm hard enough to make Mary whimper. Before she could protest he picked her up and they were airborne. All she could do was hold onto him. The weather was still cold and by the time they got to Aiden's icebound island Mary was shivering. He settled her so that she was straddling his lap. His wings wrapped around her and so did his arms. When Mary's teeth were no longer chattering, he spoke.

"You know I will not tolerate being lied to, and yet you answered two direct questions untruthfully." His tone was even, but Mary bit her lower lip as she listened to him. "You will tell me why."

Mary opened her mouth several times to begin but closed it again when she found that she didn't know how to start or what to say.

"Child if I get no answer you will force my hand. That gives me no pleasure, but I will not be disrespected." Mary whimpered softly, his arms tightened around her. "Tell me."

"I thought the statue would be a male." Mary spoke softly.

"And the fact that it is not upsets you?" His hands stopped moving on her back. 

"Yes." He sat back and held her eyes with his. When she saw the pain and anger in them Mary realized how it sounded.

"You want another?" He held her head still and his talons came perilously close to puncturing her skin.

"No!" She answered quickly, tears standing out in her eyes. She was afraid to struggle though, he was already angry. "I'm afraid that you will." His grip relaxed and he pulled her close again.

"Why?" He stroked her back.

"Because she's like you. You're always so worried about hurting me and saying how fragile I am. She isn't so fragile, you could relax and have her however you wanted her-"

"Mary-"

"And she could give you a child." Mary was starting to cry. He cradled her and whispered softly to her. When she calmed, she realized he was rocking slowly.

"We do not know that you cannot have my child." He said next to her ear. "It has been a very short time. As to the rest, you are fragile, and I knew that before I took you as mine. I love you as you are."

"I love you too, and I'm afraid of losing you." She shivered again and pulled back from him so she could look into his eyes. "I'm sorry. Please don't-" Mary couldn't get the words out, but she was near tears again. He kissed her softly.

"You test me, child." He pressed her head down against his shoulder again. Mary's body molded to his, as much for comfort as for warmth. He held her tightly. "A male must be the ruler of his mate and to do that he must command her respect."

"I don't want to be afraid of you." She whispered.

"That is not my desire either, but what I require of you is so simple. I would lose my self-respect if allowed open defiance to simply pass without notice." Mary could hear the pain in his voice, and the resolve. She bit down on her lip and stayed silent, afraid of making whatever he intended worse. His head rested against the top of hers, as if solidifying his intent. Slowly he moved his hands under her jacket and into the waistband of her sweat pants and panties, pushing them down. "Slide your hips back." Even though she was humiliated and frightened Mary was afraid not to obey. She moved back and he held her clothing in place. Once her bottom and vulva were completely exposed to the cold air he gripped her hips again, holding them in place. 

"Please, I'm sorry." Her voice broke and Mary wasn't able to look Aiden in the eye.

"I know, child." He pulled her hands behind her back and held them at the small of her back, then pulled her head forward to rest against his chest. As he unwrapped his wings she could hear his heart beating faster, and she could also feel how completely vulnerable she was. 

Mary heard his tail hiss through the air the instant before she felt it make stinging contact with the right side of her bottom. She jumped and he held her still. His tail continued, the loud smacks echoing off the leafless trees. Mary struggled and began to cry, but he held her still while the tip of his tail that had given her so much pleasure set her bottom on fire with pain. After what seemed like forever he stopped and pulled Mary forward again, covering her in the process. At first she resisted his efforts to comfort her, but he seemed to need her comfort as much as she needed his. He held her there until she had stopped crying. Without a word he lifted her and took her back to the house.

*~*~*~*~*~*

On the way back Mary was conflicted. She knew he wasn't happy about what he had done, and once the initial pain faded she was angry. When they were in the air though, she simply lay in his arms, seething. When they got inside Mary made the excuse of needing to look at the monthly bills and left him in the sitting room upstairs. She devoted a few minutes to scanning the books and then moved on to magazines. Half of her hoped Aiden wouldn't come looking for her, the other half was afraid that he wouldn't.

The one thing she wasn't confused about was her anger. She HAD lied, and she DID know how he felt about that but she was also a grown woman who didn't deserve to be punished like a little girl just because she was jealous. That was something she had never been able to control and probably never would be able to control, no matter how many times he punished her.

Finally she was too tired to stay downstairs any longer. She walked upstairs as quietly as she could, hoping she could slip into bed without him noticing her presence. She wasn't entirely certain how she thought she would sleep without him, Aiden always held her until just before sunrise. She decided to worry about that if it happened. When she entered the bedroom it was empty. By the time she had closed the door quietly behind herself Aiden had appeared in the sitting room doorway.

"Were the accounts as you wanted them?" He asked, keeping his distance.

"Yes." She couldn't meet his eyes and she found that her knees were shaking.

"It is late, you must be tired." His voice was as gentle as it always was. Mary nodded and escaped into the bathroom. She spent longer than usual getting ready for bed. When she was putting on her robe she caught sight of her bottom. It was a dull pinkish in comparison to the rest of her pale skin except for one dark, oblong blue-black bruise on the right cheek. Mary pulled the robe around herself and fussed with straightening things on shelves, and refolding towels, anything to keep from going out there again. When there was no more primping to be done she walked out into the dim room. Aiden was stretched out in bed and she knew he was naked under the covers because they both relished the feeling of skin to skin contact. At that moment, she wasn't sure that's what she wanted.

He didn't look at her but the way the end of his tail twitched she knew he was growing impatient. Mary dropped the robe on the chair next to the bed and got under the blankets quickly. She had planned to rest against him, but not to snuggle like she usually did. His arm came around her though and the feeling of his warm skin brought up all those feelings that she had worked so hard all evening to suppress. Mary whimpered softly.

"Tell me." He said softly.

"I'm so-" Mary's voice caught in her throat and tears welled up in her eyes. "So ANGRY at you."

"Why?" She looked up at him. His eyes were focused on hers, but the tone in his voice told her that he knew the answer, but he wanted to hear her say it.

"Because it was humiliating and you made me feel like I was five years old." Mary sniffled and still felt that way all over again.

"You behaved like a naughty child. If you had simply told me of your uncertainties when I asked I would have had no reason to punish you. I have told you repeatedly that you have nothing to hide from me, but for some reason you still feel compelled to secrecy." His talons stroked lightly through her hair, his tail wrapped around her leg.

"I said I was sorry, and you didn't have to leave a bruise." She was pouting a little now. He sat up straight and looked at her.

"I did not." He pulled her across his lap and Mary whimpered sharply, suddenly terrified that he was going to hit her again. When he lightly touched the edges of the mark, Mary jumped. Aiden released her and when she got up she could see the pain in his eyes. She snuggled against him hesitantly and he held her as if she might break. Aiden sighed deeply and Mary tightened her arms around him, molding her body to his. "It was not my intent to injure you, child. You must know that."




Heart of Stone Ch. 04



"I know." She felt tears filling her eyes again, but they were less for her own pain and more for his. "I'm sorry I was jealous, I couldn't help it." He lifted her chin and looked into her eyes.

"Do you believe that that is why I punished you?" He sounded genuinely surprised. One hand caressed her bruised bottom softly.

"Well, yes." Mary was equally surprised. She relaxed against him and enjoyed his touch again, without thinking about it. "I mean I know I lied and that upset you, but I thought it was more that I was jealous."

"Child, your emotions are neither right nor wrong. I would no sooner punish you for having a feeling than I would for coughing. If you had simply told me how you felt we would have discussed it and moved forward from there. Did you aunt punish you for what you felt?" The pads of his fingers were stroking lightly over her skin. Mary didn't trust her voice and she nodded, his arms tightened around her again and his tail softly gripped her leg. She forgot her anger and embarrassment and once again he was her source of nurturing comfort. "You will be recovered from your beginnings, sweet one. I will not apologize for correcting you, but will you forgive me for bruising you?"

"Yes." Mary said softly.

"And are you still angry?" He pulled the covers up over shoulders and a little sigh escaped Mary's lips and the last of the tension left her body.

"A little." She said. She felt his low chuckle more than she heard it.

"I can live with that." He kissed her forehead and Mary found his lips with hers. On most nights she would have settled next to him, but this wasn't most nights. She closed her eyes and fell asleep on his chest.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For the next three months Mary concentrated on learning magic. At first the books were incomprehensible but Aiden was a patient guide through the basics. She found that once she mastered those the rest came very naturally to her. There were a few bumps along the way, one of the largest was when Mary misspoke and prevented Aiden's transformation from stone to flesh. It took her over a week to find her mistake and how to reverse it. 

When Aiden finally woke Mary was afraid that he would be angry with her. He was annoyed, but that was because the spell she used was imperfect. His physical desires were not quelled and he had spent that time hungry, thirsty and in need of sex. After being without him for that length of time, Mary found that her need for him was just as great. The beast in him slipped the fetters of his control in that encounter and she was left with with intimate bruises, long deep scratches on her hips, and Aiden's guilt. Everything was healing relatively well he wouldn't let go of his worry until she was healed completely.

Mary wasn't thinking about his guilt as she paced in the sitting room though. She barely heard the balcony door open and close.

"Mary," His eyebrows were drawn together as he looked at her. "You will only command your new abilities if you can control them."

At first Mary was confused, until she followed the direction of his gaze and looked over her head. She blushed a bit as she waved her hand through the dark, swirling thoughtforms that chased each other there, dissipating them like so much smoke.

"Sorry." He lifted her Mary kissed him, holding on with her arms and legs longer than usual. "I guess I was just worrying and not thinking about what else was happening."

"I gathered that you were upset." He brought her over to the bedroom and set her carefully on her feet. "Get undressed." He kissed her forehead and disappeared into the bathroom and Mary complied without hesitation, pulling her short silk robe around herself before getting into bed. He emerged a few minutes later carrying the white enamel bowl and a smaller bowl with a thick green paste in in it. Mary lay on her side and lifted her robe to the waist, revealing the scratches.

"They're not as red as yesterday." She said softly.

"So I see." He turned her slightly and pushed the robe off of her shoulder. Mary took the hint and slid out of it, even though she kept herself covered as much as possible. "Are you still using that other ointment?"

"No." She had started out using an antibiotic cream but found his green paste that smelled like spicy grass clippings worked much better. He used a small basting brush to apply a thick layer to the scratches. She winced as the treatment stared to burn. "There didn't seem to be a need."

"As I said." He smiled a bit as he said it.

"How did you know it would work so well anyway?" He sat down and Mary pillowed her head against his thigh. His fingers moved through her hair and Mary shivered pleasantly.

"Because I have used it before, with one of your ancestors." 

"Which one?" Mary still hadn't investigated the family history as much as she should have, but if she didn't ask something he would ask her what was wrong. 

"John Beeson. He had been out hunting and was struck with an arrow. In those times any injury was serious, but he was struck in the meat of his arm and wound seemed minor. Within several days though the wound acquired a foul stench that left no doubt that all of the remedies and prayers were not working. I spoke to his father of this remedy and since there was little hope of anything else working I was allowed to try. All were surprised that it worked so well."

"I thought you were a warrior." Mary's body was relaxed and burning sting had subsided. She closed her eyes and drew a deep breath. He laughed softly.

"I am, but it is useful for one who fights to know how to heal himself, and his comrades." His talons lightly stroked her back. "That is not to say that what is healing for our kind is always healing for yours, but there are overlaps." He lifted her head and Mary moved so he could stand. Aiden carefully washed the ointment from her skin and Mary turned. He began treating the other side. "So what upset you so today?"

"Mr. and Mrs. March want to leave." She drew in a sharp breath and closed her eyes as the burning spread through her other hip.

"Ambrose told me when he hired them. Do they wish to move to another position, or end work entirely?" The wounds on this side were deeper and the treatment was more uncomfortable. Mary shivered a bit, but Aiden continued until each scratch was covered. 

"No, Mrs. March said she thinks Mr. March is ill, because he's seeing things." Mary tried to be vague and hoped that he would just accept that with no further explanation.

"What is he seeing?" He helped her sit up a little and rest against his side. Mary was silent until he lifted her chin.

"You." She said softly. "I guess we haven't been as careful as I'd thought. Anyway, Mrs. March thinks that he's hallucinating and she wants to move to London where he can be under the care of psychiatrist."

"A what?" He was looking at her curiously.

"Sorry, a doctor that specializes in the treatment of mental illnesses."

"Ah." He held her silently for a few minutes. "Do you trust them?"

"Of course. I can't imagine being here without them, much less how I'm going to find someone else to take over their jobs. Maggie hinted that she would make a good housekeeper, but I don't think I could stand having her around any more than she is."

"Have you considered telling them?" Mary looked up, surprised to see that he was being perfectly serious. She didn't know how to respond. "We were not always secrets you know. I do not know how knowledge of our kind was so thoroughly obliterated, but our kind lived openly with yours. I know the world has changed, but if you can trust these two, I see no reason to keep the secret from them."

"I was wondering how I would keep the other a secret, if I managed to wake her that is." Mary was still not certain how the conversation would sound like, but the idea made sense.

"I have no doubt that you will wake the other." He stroked her face softly and smiled into her eyes. Mary blushed and snuggled against him. "Consider it, child." He kissed her lightly and then reached for the cloth again. 



Heart of Stone Ch. 05



5. Conversation & Guests

A week later Mary sat in the library with Mr. And Mrs. March. Tea had been poured and a few pleasantries had been exchanged, but no one was comfortable. The silence between them grew bigger and more ponderous until Mrs. March spoke.

"Miss Beeson, we know that you don't want us to go. We don't want to leave either, but Colin's health has to come first. Surely you understand that." She said.

"I do, and if I thought that Mr. March was ill I wouldn't even consider standing in your way-"

"You're calling me a liar, Miss?" She was offended and Mary didn't blame her, this wasn't going at all how she pictured it.

"No, that's not what I'm saying." Mary sighed.

"Well then maybe you'd better spell it out for us." Mr. March grasped his wife's hand. "I did imagine seeing you and a monster."

"But that's just it, you didn't imagine it." She closed her eyes so they wouldn't have to see the disbelieving looks on their faces. "I can PROVE that it wasn't a dream, or imagination or a hallucination."

"Miss, I think that you've been rattling around this old place by yourself for too long." Mrs. March began, the look of concern back in her face.

"Please, just wait here." Mary got up and closed the library doors behind herself. Aiden never ate with her and he rarely drank anything she offered, but she found that he did like tea. She went into the kitchen and got a large, deep soup bowl with a handle down from the shelf. It was too big to use for soup, but the size and the way it was made meant that it looked like a perfectly ordinary-sized cup in his hands. She saw Aiden waiting on the landing and she motioned to him.

"They think I'm crazy." She whispered.

"All of their doubts will be laid to rest sweet one." He leaned down and kissed her forehead. Mary rested against his chest for a moment and then led Aiden into the room. Both Mr. And Mrs. March jumped up and Mrs. March stifled a scream. Aiden remained behind Mary and she knew from experience that he was doing his best to look as benign as a horned and taloned creature could look.

"This is Aiden." She was trying to sound casual, but Mary wondered if everyone else in the room could hear her heartbeat. She turned to him.

"Aiden, this is Colin and Maureen March, my gardener and housekeeper, respectively." She stepped aside and filled the large cup with the rest of the tea in the pot.

"It is my pleasure to finally meet you. Mary has told me a great deal about both of you." He brought his chair over and sat, he accepted the cup when Mary handed it to him. The Marches had stopped cowering, but their eyes were still wide.

"Would you like more? I can make another pot." She asked softly.

"Not just now, child. Thank you." Mary sat next to him and Mr. March sat again, looking more confused than frightened. Mrs. March still looked completely terrified.

"He's a demon." She breathed.

"No!" Mary said, unable to keep the offense out of her voice. He laid his hand lightly on her arm.

"Remember that you were also frightened at first." Mary knew she was letting her nerves get the better of her. She fell silent and let him continue explaining. He turned to the stunned couple. "I am a gargoyle. Your demons were made to look like my kind, to further engender fear and disgust."

"You're the statue. The one the old gentleman said was alive." Mr. March said.

"That's not possible." Mrs. March said firmly. "This whole thing is not possible. We're dreaming or crazy or something." Mr. March grasped his wife's hand and she clung to him as if he were her last link to sanity.

"It's a lot to take in." Mary felt sorry for the older couple and her tone was calmer. "I thought I was dreaming too at first, or that I had gotten so lonely I was imagining things."

"If he's the statue, then if we go upstairs it won't be on the balcony." Mrs. March said, still trying to make sense of it all.

"True enough. I will remain here if you wish to reassure yourself." Aiden offered. The older couple disappeared upstairs. Those few minutes seemed to be the longest of Mary's life. To a casual observer, Aiden seemed unconcerned, but the way he kept repositioning his wings and the persistent twitch in the end of his tail told Mary that he was nervous too. Finally they returned and sat down in silence.

"This isn't a trick, is it Miss?" Mrs. March asked, her hands trembled a little as she sipped her tea.

"No." Mary said. "But Aiden and I didn't mean any harm either. He tells me that his kind have always been protectors of their human families, and then we turned on them."

Aiden began to tell the story of his kind and even though it was the second time Mary had heard it she was just as enthralled as she had been the first time. Mary picked up the story when he reached to the part about the search for others and how she eventually located the new one in the garden.

"Why isn't that one alive?" Mrs. March asked.

"Because she's still cursed. I still don't know how I broke Aiden's spell, I think it has something to do with the fact I cried on him but that's only a guess." Mary sipped some of her tea. 

"And you two became friends?" Mr. March asked.

"At first." Mary blushed and he put his hand on her arm lightly. She gripped his hand softly. "And then it became more. We got closer over the months and in December Aiden took me as his mate."

"So when I saw the two of you, you weren't in trouble?" Mr. March asked, leaning forward. Even Mrs. March seemed more relaxed. Mary started to relax herself.

"No. I wasn't even afraid, well, not after the first time." She laughed softly and even Mrs. March managed a smile.

"It's you that's taking the deer then." Mr. March said.

"Yes." Aiden answered. "I asked Mary's permission first, but like any other natural creature I must eat to remain healthy and survive. Have I inconvenienced you in some way?"

"Oh no Mr. Aiden. The way I see it the deer belong to Miss Mary, I only ask because Freddy Aiken found one of the carcasses the other day and he's been talking in the village pub."

"He's a drunk." Mrs. March scoffed. "Everyone in the village knows better than to listen to him."

"What is he doing on your property?" Aiden asked Mary.

"The estate is so big, I think it was Ambrose that split part of it up. Freddy Aiken rents a small piece of land."

"And he parks a filthy little caravanette on it." Mrs. March said. "I used to tell Mr. Ambrose that no good would come of putting up with him."

"Mr. Ambrose didn't like to think of him wandering through the village and creating a nuisance. He keeps to himself." Her husband answered.

"He likes to keep the rent to himself too, or at least that's what Mr. Ambrose always said." She responded.

"What does this have to do with the deer?" Mary asked.

"Sorry, Miss. There's a path behind The Black Dog that takes him through the wood to his little patch. A couple of weeks ago he went into the pub talking about how there was a monster in the wood because he saw it drop a torn up deer carcass." He sipped his now cold tea and set the cup aside with a little grimace.

"Let me make a fresh pot." Mrs. March collected the cups but paused before reaching out for Aiden's. He held it out to her with a benign smile and she accepted it carefully. "Will you want more as well?" She asked him.

"No, thank you." His tail wrapped around Mary's ankle and she smiled over at him.

"So what did people say when Freddy told him about his monster?" Mary asked.

"Well nothing much really, Freddy being a drunk and all. People just laughed. I did too, only now I'm not sure it's so funny anymore."

"It would seem that things have changed a great deal. In the past, the estate was closed to all but invited guests. Do others often walk in the forest?"

"On the side of the wood nearest the village there are several places that people like to take picnic lunches. Freddy is about the only one who goes through the wood in the dark though, at least as far as I know." Mrs. March returned and passed out cups of hot tea. "I only bring it up though because if someone who isn't a drunk should happen to see what Freddy saw, well, there's a chance that it wouldn't be laughed off."

"Can you show me the places that these others frequent?" Aiden asked, his tail squeezed Mary's ankle lightly, rhythmically.

"I'll take you there in the morning." Mr. March took a long swallow of his tea.

"That will not be possible. Perhaps I neglected to mention that it is my nature to revert to stone during the day."

"You did mention it, I think I was a little distracted." Aiden smiled a little and so did Mr. March. "I don't know that I could find my way over there in the dark though."

"What about the north side?" Mary asked. "I thought Mr. Scott told me that was still kept as private land."

"That's true Miss." He said. "I couldn't dictate to Mr. Aiden where he can and can't go though. It just seems like you've been trying to keep this to yourselves, maybe Mr. Aiden could get what he needs in the north section."

"Speaking of secrets," Mrs. March said. "Are you planning on talking with Maggie about all this?"

"Well, that wasn't my plan." Mary said slowly, unsure of where her housekeeper was heading. "Mostly I wanted you to know that Mr. March wasn't ill, and I was hoping that when you knew that you would stay."

"We'll have to talk about it-" She began.

"We'll stay." Mr. March said firmly. "The only reason I could be convinced to leave at all was the fact that I thought I was losing my grip." Mrs. March smiled over at him.

"It seems we're staying then." She smiled, first at her husband and then at Mary and Aiden. "Now about Maggie, it's not for me to tell tales but the only reason she doesn't steal the silver is because I would notice."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The conversation became easier after that and they talked until close to ten at night. By the time everyone was ready to say goodnight the older couple had become Colin and Maureen to Mary and Aiden and they both felt comfortable enough to allow Aiden to walk them to the cottage. While he was gone Mary washed the dishes and went upstairs and took a quick shower. She emerged from bathroom in her robe with her damp hair around her shoulders. She found him in the small sitting room. Aiden reached for her and Mary curled up in his lap. When his arms were safely around her Mary shrugged out of the robe and was rewarded with a soft purring growl. For a while, he held her in silence.

"Did that progress as you imagined it would?" He asked softly.

"I think it went better, but that was because of you." She kissed the side of his throat softly. He sighed and his arms tightened around her.

"Thank you, child." His talons traced lightly over had back. Mary arched and shivered pleasantly. "Something is still weighing on your mind though."

"What if we're wrong?" She said after several silent minutes. "What if I wake up to reporters and photographers all over? What if someone says you're a threat to national security and they come and take you away?" Her arms tightened around his body. She could hear him suppress a small chuckle.

"Those two will tell no one and speaking with Colin has given me a better idea of how to remain hidden in plain sight in this age, and if anyone attempts to take me from you they will face quite a fight." He kissed her lightly. "You surprised me tonight."

"How?" Mary's body was molded to his.

"I did not think that you would reveal that you were my mate." One large hand drifted over her hip and thigh. Mary winced when one talon accidentally scraped over one of one the few scabs that hadn't healed yet.

"Did it bother you?" In truth Mary had surprised herself. She wasn't certain that they would see Aiden as anything but an animal. In that moment though, it seemed so important that they understand he was much more than that to her. The words were out of her mouth before she could consider how Aiden might feel about it. He lifted her chin.

"No child, it made me certain that I chose wisely." His lips found hers and Mary arched against him, her fingers stroked his chest lightly. She moaned softly, her tongue caressed his lightly. His hands drifted down, and caught one of her scabs painfully again. Mary whimpered softly and felt the warm trickle of blood over her hip. She reluctantly let him break the kiss, he lifted her. "Let me treat that, before I make it worse."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Miss, there's a Mr. Darren Rathbun here to see you." Mary put her needlepoint down. It was a new hobby, but one that she found enjoyable.

"What does he want?" She asked.

"I don't know. He says that it has something to do with your new statue." Maureen stepped into the room and closed the door behind herself. She lowered her voice. "If you ask me, he seems a rather strange sort."

Mary glanced outside and noticed it was nearly dark. Over the past six months, the Marches had guarded the secret of Aiden's existence as fiercely as Mary herself did. They had also gotten very comfortable with Aiden and he seemed to like feeling as though he had both of them to take care of as well.

"Please show him in, but Aiden should be waking soon. Go up and let him know I have a guest here in the library and that he's a stranger." 

"Of course, Miss." Maureen slipped out of the room quietly. The library was on the ground floor, Aiden's height meant that he would easily be able to see in. Mary told herself that she was doing it only so that he would have no misgivings about her meeting with this stranger, but the fact was, she was nervous. At least with Aiden nearby she hoped she would be able to hold onto the appearance of composure.

"Mr.-" Maureen started.

"Darren Rathbun." Her guest finished. He was a tall, gaunt man with oily-looking hair and an equally oily smile. Immediately Mary knew that she didn't like this man. "Such a pleasure to meet the beautiful great-granddaughter of my dearest friend, Ambrose." He swept into the room with a flourish. Mary caught the surprised look Maureen gave him. Mary stepped back when he reached out to take her hands.

"I'm pleased to meet you Mr. Rathbun, but I don't shake hands. It's a peculiarity of mine." She thought she saw a cloud drift across his unnaturally animated face, but he recovered quickly. "Would you like some tea? Or perhaps coffee?" She indicated a wing-chair near the fire and sat in the other one. Her guest had little choice but to sit.

"Tea would be lovely." His smile that twisted his thin lips stopped well before it reached his gray eyes. 

"Maureen, if you would please." Mary didn't like the prospect of being alone with this man, but there was not good reason for the housekeeper to remain. Besides, this would give a chance to alert Aiden. The older woman left silently.

"So you knew Ambrose?" Mary asked, shattering the silence and her strange guest's stare.

"Oh yes, we were constant companions. He was a great deal older than myself of course, but that hardly mattered. I am sure we will be good friends as well, I believe that we have many things in common." There was a predatory glint in his eye, but the rest of his face seemed friendly and open. It was a disparity that unsettled Mary.

"You've only just met me Mr. Rathbun." There was a soft knock at the door and Maureen entered. She set the tea tray on a low table between them and left silently. Mary poured a cup for her guest. "Cream, sugar or lemon?"

"Lemon." His grin grew hungrier as he reached for the cup and saucer. Mary's skin crawled at the idea of those long fingers touching her, even casually. She set the cup in front of him and was rewarded with a fleeting disappointed look. Mary pretended not to notice and prepared a cup for herself with sugar.

"Maureen told me that you wanted to talk about my statue." She sipped the tea.

"You Americans are all business." He laughed softly and took a sip of his tea. "You recently purchased a rather large statue at auction, didn't you?"

"A number of months ago, yes." Mary smiled and fought the urge to produce some plausible explanation as to why she wanted it. Her guest was doing enough lying for the both of them.

"I was bidding against you." He smiled his oily smile and Mary began to notice other things about him too, like the fact that the suit he wore was obviously new, but it was so out of fashion she didn't even want to venture a guess as to what century the style came from. "I already own a similar statue you see, and I wanted another to go along with it. Is that why you bought it?" His eyes sharpened. Mary wished there was some way to have Aiden in the room with her. She sipped her tea, taking great care to keep her body still.

"No." The lie was a calculated risk. She was certain this man hadn't known Ambrose from Maureen's reaction, but it was possible that he knew about Aiden. "But you can see the Hall is covered in gargoyles. I thought I would continue the theme through to the garden." 

"There were several available, did you buy others?" Mary refilled his cup. "One statue hardly makes a theme in a garden."

"That one happened to be the only one I liked." His manner had shifted, and the change put Mary on edge. 

"Oh now Mary," he chuckled and the sound reminded Mary of the sounds dry leaves made when they scuttled on pavement. "It's a statue. An object. Now, if I were to reimburse you the purchase price, and the cost of having it brought all the way out here, you could easily buy several others. Begin a proper collection, as it were."

"That's a very generous offer, Mr. Rathbun, but I'm not interested." Mary was certain that she saw a flash of anger in his eyes. His hand closed into a tight fist before he forced himself to relax.

"Please, call me Darren." He said, attempting to keep his tone even. "Of course, you want something for your time and trouble. I can arrange that."

"Thank you, but I won't be changing my mind. You know how girls are, we get attached to silly objects." She smiled slightly and she could sense him appraising her. The tea was completely forgotten. Mary didn't even let herself think about where he was going to get the money to pay her off. If he had ready assets he wouldn't have lost the auction in the first place. Her guest seemed to be considering his position.

"I can see that you are a very astute young woman, so I will be honest with you. Do you know anything about your great-grandfather?" He asked.

"Not much." It was the truth, but it left him open to interpret it as he wished. His eyes lit up and he sipped the cold tea. She could almost see him thinking about what he would say.

"He was a very powerful magician." His eyes were intense and Mary returned his gaze with perfect innocence.

"You mean he pulled rabbits out of hats?" She said, knowing perfectly will that isn't what he meant. He sighed.

"I suppose that is what most people think about the practice today. I don't mean the illusions practiced for the amusement of children, I mean the manipulation of and control of the physical environment by purely metaphysical means." Now Mary knew why she had been so adamant that this man not touch her. If he had contact with her skin, even for a moment, he would know the level of her skill. 

"It seems there are a great many things I didn't know about Ambrose. Are there others who have these same abilities?" Mary knew she was treading on thin ice.

"Powerful knowledge is rarely lost completely." He waved his hand and flames grew on the candles scattered around the room. It was impressive, but it was a simple enchantment. The gesture was a flourish made entirely for her benefit. She played her part and looked suitably awestruck. He smiled benignly. "Your family has quite a long history of magical skill, I'm certain Ambrose would be pleased if you were to allow me to train you." The predatory glint was back in his eye.




Heart of Stone Ch. 05



"That's a generous offer, but I don't think I would be very good at magic. I'm far too much of a modern girl." Mary laughed softly. "I am pleased to know more about Ambrose though. Does his skill have something to do with my statue?"

"As a matter of fact it does." He waved his hand and the candles went out. Mary realized too late that she should have looked impressed again. His eyes narrowed slightly and he continued. "Your statue has been cursed."

"Cursed?" She was genuinely curious now. 

"Yes. I know that must sound like something out of bad movie, but I assure you that it's quite true." His eyes were sharply appraising and in direct conflict with the jovial tone of his voice. "It's nothing that happened recently of course and it has nothing to do with you or your family, but I would hate for you to be hurt by it."

"Why would anyone curse a statue?" Mary managed a small laugh, interested to see how he might spin the story.

"That is a very good question, dear Mary. The fact of the matter is that your statue is actually a demon." He picked up the cup of cold tea and held it for a moment. Mary saw steam begin to rise and he took a sip. 

"I'm sorry, that sounds unbelievable." She said, still watching him curiously.

"I know that such things are relegated to the realms of fantasy. Allow me to tell you the story." He sat back in the chair and templed his bony fingers under his chin. "There was a time before the light of Christianity spread and solidified that demons threatened good men on a regular basis. They were a blight upon the world. No one was safe, innocents were slaughtered and maimed, crops were incinerated in the fields and the soil salted to bring famine. Wells were poisoned and plagues spread to incite chaos among good folk. When the sun dipped below the horizon evil stalked the Earth with impunity, but, since no evil thing can tolerate the light of the sun, the demons became as statues at every sunrise."

"It would seem like that would make it easy to fix the problem." Mary said, holding her anger in check. She found that the more time she spent with this man the more nauseated she became.

"Quite true, quite true. Of course, there were a few men who were touched by Satan himself who provided them with safety during the day. For years, magicians labored tirelessly to find some way to rid the world of this menace. Finally, after years of trying, one man found a way prevent the waking of the demons, giving those who were charged with ridding the world of this menace time to do so. They were largely successful, but there were a few that escaped, and over time, they were forgotten. The statue sitting in your garden is one of those." He smiled benignly, but somehow the expression looked more threatening on him than a snarl would on Aiden.

"Alright," Mary's thoughts were racing. "Let's say I believe that the statue in my garden IS a demon as you say. What does it matter? I mean, it's still stone, this enchantment you were talking about is obviously still working."

"So far." He had begun speaking like a school teacher. "Enchantments, like anything else, are not eternal things. This one is beginning to fracture after all these years. I'm only trying to protect you from what would happen if the spell should shatter completely." Another hideously benign smile.

"Please Mary, sell me the statue and buy yourself two or three others that are merely objects of stone. I will see to it that the one in your garden is properly blessed and destroyed." His voice was cajoling and she felt an uncomfortable pressure against her mind.

"No. I'm sorry, frankly I find all of this a little hard to accept." Mary stood up and rang for Maureen, unsure how much longer she would be able to retain her composure. 

"Mary I-" He began.

"You'll have to excuse me now Mr. Rathbun."

"Yes, Miss?" The housekeeper had appeared at the door.

"If you would get Mr. Rathbun's coat and hat please Maureen. He's leaving." Mary said. 

"Very good, Miss." She left the door open again, but withdrew.

"At least take my card." She could tell he was shocked. "Just in case you change your mind."

"Leave it on the tea tray. If I change my mind once all of this has had a chance to settle I will call you." Frustrated he placed the card on the tray. "It was a pleasure meeting you." She said with a smile.

"And you, Mary." He grabbed his coat and hat and walked angrily out of the room. She heard the door close and she repeated a protection spell before Maureen appeared again.

"Is he gone?" Mary asked.

"Yes Miss-" Mary rushed past the older woman and into the downstairs bathroom, barely making it before beginning to vomit. Aiden appeared in the door but the room was too small for him to squeeze into. Maureen shooed him away and closed the door. She held Mary's hair and stroked her back as she wretched. Finally, when her stomach was empty Mary sat back on her heels. Maureen handed her a cool cloth for her face.

"Thanks, I'm sorry." Mary accepted the cloth gratefully.

"Think nothing of it Miss. I don't know who he was, but he certainly wasn't a friend of Mr. Ambrose's." Mary got up and rinsed her mouth. "Let me make you a cup of tea, I'm sure Mr. Aiden's worried about you."

"Tea sounds nice, thank you Maureen." Mary stayed in the bathroom and tried to stop trembling. She brushed her teeth before trusting herself to leave the small room. Her head was still spinning when she stepped out into Aiden's waiting arms. 

"Did you hear?" Her voice was scratchy.

"Hush." He picked her up and Mary let herself go limp in his arms. Her eyes were closed but she recognized the sensation of being carried up the stairs. He held her in his lap in the small sitting room. Maureen tapped softly on the door and then came in. She handed Mary a mug of sweet mint tea and set a small plate of toast on the side table.

"It's a good thing you don't take cream miss." She said softly.

"Why?" Mary took the cup and sipped gratefully. She felt her stomach settling and her trembling easing.

"Because all the milk and cream we have in the house has gone off. I don't understand it. Everything was fresh this morning and now it's all curdled. I didn't think to ask before, did you want anything Mr. Aiden? The water's already hot." 

"Nothing, thank you." He stroked Mary's back gently. "Would you like me to walk you back to the cottage?"

"No, I've called Colin and he'll be over with his rifle. Is there anything else you need before I leave for the night?"

"Burn his card. Make sure it's nothing but ashes and then scatter them." Mary said, trusting her voice again. "Then you can go."

"Of course Miss."

"Thank you Maureen, for everything." Mary managed a small smile.

"You're welcome, Miss." She smiled in her motherly way and left.

"What was he?" Mary asked, seeing the 'demon' in Aiden's features for the first time in along time. 

"I do not know." Aiden's arms tightened around her and that association evaporated, replaced by a sensation of complete safety. "Whatever he was, I feel safe in saying that he was not human, and in saying that you handled him with a skill that was impressive for one so young."

Mary blushed and felt some of the tension leaving her body.

"Thanks, but I didn't really have a choice." He handed her the toast but she shook her head. "No, I don't think I could."

"Just a bit. You should not try to sleep with your stomach so empty." His voice was soft and Mary took the toast off the plate and took small nibble, more to appease him than anything else. After a few minutes though she discovered that she was beginning to feel a little hungry. She ate it slowly, snuggled against Aiden's chest.



Heart of Stone Ch. 06



Once again, a big thank you to all the kind reviewers. I'm glad you're all enjoying the story so much! 

- psyche b.

6. Relationships

The few minutes with her strange visitor played on Mary's mind more than she liked to admit. The next day she strengthened the protection spell she had placed on the house, then added another for Aiden and the new statue. Beyond that, she tried to get back to her usual routine of study, but something about her odd guest wouldn't let her settle her mind. Her afternoon vomiting was becoming disruptive and worrisome as well. On a whim, she called Robert Barnaby.

"This is Mary Beeson, I don't know if you remember me." Her stomach began to turn over again.

"Of course Miss Beeson. You called about the statue, I'm not sure what else I can tell you though." She heard him shuffling papers.

"Maybe nothing. Look, this is going to sound very odd, but did your father visit with a stranger before he destroyed the statue?" The line went absolutely silent. Mary waited, listening to her stomach gurgle and her heart beat. "Mr. Barnaby?"

"I won't discuss this over the phone." His voice sounded hollow when he spoke again. "I'll be in London for the next three days. Would we be able to arrange a meeting?"

"Yes. Would lunch tomorrow be convenient for you?" Mary asked.

"Quite convenient." He responded. Mary wrote down the directions to his office.

"Thank you Mr. Barnaby."

"I hope you'll be thanking me tomorrow. Goodbye." His voice sounded troubled, not just busy as it had in the beginning.

"Goodbye." Mary said and hung up the phone and ran to the bathroom.

"Are you alright Miss?" Maureen looked concerned when Mary emerged again.

"Yes, I think I'm just reacting to the thought of my guest. I'll be going to London tomorrow and I need to leave early in the morning, but I shouldn't be too late getting back."

"Do you want Colin to drive you?" Mary learned to drive soon after deciding to stay, but there were times she still felt more comfortable having someone else with her.

"No, I think I'd prefer it if he stayed here this time. Is there any more of that soup you made yesterday?" Mary went into the kitchen and started looking through the fridge. Maureen took the container from her hands and started heating it.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary stood on the balcony and watched the sun set. She knew that going to London was that right thing to do, but Aiden wasn't going to like it. It had taken all afternoon to decide how to tell him and in the end she decided that the best way would simply get it out and tell him her reasons and they would have to work it out from there. When the sun disappeared below the horizon, Mary heard Aiden start to stir behind her. She turned quickly, determined to get it out in the open before she lost her nerve.

"Aiden, I-" Mary didn't have a chance to finish her statement, his mouth was on hers, kissing hungrily. Mary smiled and gave herself over to the sensation. She wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist, her tongue caressed his. Mary barely noticed rain that was beginning to fall as he pressed her against the rough stone wall of the house. She whimpered softly when one uneven stone pressed painfully into her lower back. She ignored it, her hands moved softly over his chest. She pinched his nipples sharply, making him growl against her mouth, his hips pressed forward and she realized how hard he was already. He lifted her skirt and tore her panties away.

"Stop." She murmured against his lips. He responded with another firm thrust of his hips. The rough fabric of his loincloth hung between them and ground against her most tender places. Mary whimpered sharply.

"Aiden please." The desperate tone in her voice broke through his lust and his eyes focused on hers. He kissed her more softly and she wrapped her arms around his neck, her body molded to his, her lips and tongue playing along the side of his neck.

"Mixing your signals, child?" His voice rumbled next to her ear. Mary tightened her arms and legs around him and laughed softly. 

"It wasn't your back that was being bruised on a cold stone wall." She nipped his ear softly between the first and second ring. 

"Careful girl, or you'll lose your pretty dress." He growled and drew his teeth over the side of her neck, Mary arched against him.

"Well then put me down," she licked the same spot lightly. "and I'll take it off."

"Ordering me now are you?" He chuckled and set her on her feet, then stepped back. His eyes took her in hungrily, his arms crossed over his broad chest. Mary's heart began to pound. "Well?" He said, a little smirk on his face.

Her hands trembled as she opened the buttons, she blushed dark crimson as she slid the garment off her shoulders. Aiden had begun to walk around her with a predatory smile on his face. Mary forced herself not to turn her head when he moved behind her, but his hungry gaze was almost a physical sensation on her skin. Her nipples strained against her bra and she felt a slick wetness between her legs when she moved. She heard him drop his loincloth and she moaned softly.

"Do you require help with the rest?" He had moved in front of her again, he grinned and held up one razor sharp talon, his thick erection standing up against his firm stomach. He had quickly dispatched a favorite bra of hers only a few days before and she wasn't eager for a repeat performance. Her fingers fumbled with the front clasp of her bra, her eyes on his swollen member the whole time. As many times as she had taken him inside her, as much as she wanted him, his size still made her tremble. She tossed the bra aside and tried to catch her breath.

Aiden stepped forward again with a look of tenderness in his eyes, he lifted her chin. Mary moved into his arms, his hands caressed her softly and his lips toyed with hers gently. He lifted her again, but this time all Mary felt against her back was his strong arms and her soft bed. She sighed and relaxed, her hands wandering over his back and arms. His tongue caressed hers and Mary felt the last bit of tension leave her body. She sighed softly, her hands stroking his head as his lips found her right nipple. He suckled softly and Mary moaned.

His lips and tongue tasted her breasts, sampling her soft flesh with hunger and gentleness that combined to bring Mary close to the edge before he ever touched her anywhere else. She was trembling and near begging when his lips lingered on the front of her smooth mound and she gladly exposed herself for his questing tongue.

Aiden began to explore every fold, every delicate surface of Mary's swollen, dripping sex. She pressed up against his lips, whimpering with need, but he retreated each time until just the tip of his tongue brushed her most sensitive nub.

"Please." She whimpered in a plaintive voice as she arched and squirmed, trying desperately for the release she needed. He smiled at her from between her legs and his tongue flickered faster. Mary's back arched and she clawed at the sheets as her release consumed her. His mouth covered her opening, sucking softly as his tongue pressed inside her spasming entrance. Mary's cries reverberated off the walls and her head began to swim before he took his mouth away. She was trembling and limp, her eyes closed. 

She barely felt his weight shift when he moved next to her, but even in her somewhat confused state Mary wondered why he would turn her so that her back was against his chest. For a few floating minutes she lay in his arms, her eyes closed. One of his large hands splayed against her stomach, stroking her skin, his lips caressing her shoulder softly.

"Do you have any idea how beautiful you are when you lie in my arms like this?" He murmured. Mary blushed and shook her head a little. His hand moved up to caress her breast, he pinched her nipple, drawing a trembling moan from Mary, then moved his hand softly over her hip and down the back of her leg, turning her more on her stomach, her leg held out so that she was totally exposed. Mary tried to move but he held her still. Her heart began to race, she whimpered softly.

"Relax, dear one." Aiden murmured next to her ear. Mary tried, focusing on the way his tail caressed her inner thighs, then her slick lips. She sighed softly and some of the tension left her body until that slick appendage brushed against her bottom.

"No!" Mary whimpered. She arched her back and struggled. Aiden held her in place with the weight of his body until she stopped struggling.

"Mary?" His grip relaxed enough to pull her into his body. His thick shaft settled between her legs, but even in her current state she realized he wasn't as excited as he had been. "What frightens you so?" She could hear the concern in his voice. 

"I was afraid that you wanted to-" Mary found that she didn't know how to phrase it. "When I was on my stomach-" Words failed her again, one large hand massaged her breast and Mary relaxed.

"Sometimes I forget that our cultures are so different in this respect." His lips caressed the side of her neck. "A male does not require the act you fear of a female that he loves. For my kind it is a perversion that a male will sometimes practice with a concubine, but NEVER with his mate." Mary felt the tension leaving her body. She raised her knees and the pressure on his manhood drew a low moan from Aiden. He moved his hips and the top of his shaft rubbed against her wet sex. Mary sighed, her body easily responding to his touch. 

"Give me another chance?" She reached down between her legs and pressed him more firmly against her slick flesh. He was almost as hard as he had been in the beginning. He pinched her nipple firmly and Mary gasped.

"Convince me." His voice rumbled against her ear, and even though she couldn't see him she could hear the little smile on his lips. Mary was smiling too as she turned to face him. One hand found his erection and she stroked him firmly. His eyes closed and he groaned.

"Maybe I should write you a letter," She pushed him over onto his back, her mouth moving down over his chest. "Explaining my shortcomings as a mate." Her tongue teased his navel and her hand stroked. Aiden arched his back and moaned.

"Course a speech might be better," Her tongue slowly licked around the swollen head of his erection while her hand stroked the shaft firmly. "Just so you could hear my remorse." She took the head in her mouth now, sucking hungrily. His head was arched back, his hand on the back of her head, pressing her to take just a bit more. Mary tried, her hands busy on his hard shaft and the soft sack the hung beneath. Mary could tell that he was close by the tension in his muscles. Her fingers curled in her hair and Mary moved up next to him again. He kissed her greedily and Mary arched up against him when the tip of his tail pressed up inside her, she groaned.

"Will you trust me?" His eyes were on hers and Mary knew that he wasn't teasing this time. 

"Yes." She kissed him softly, and moaned deeply as the sensitive tip of his tail found the right spot inside her. Suddenly Mary couldn't be still, she arched and squirmed and pressed desperately against his tail. Just as she was about to get the release she needed he took his tail away and positioned her again. One hand supported her hips up off the mattress, the other arm supported some of his weight. The bed was thrown into deep shadow as his wings spread, creating a canopy over them.

Mary tensed a little when he pressed against her. Aiden waited, keeping constant gentle pressure against her opening, his lips and tongue teasing the back of her neck and shoulder. She moaned and the tension left her body. He pressed more firmly, slowly Mary felt her body accepting his. With every inch that pressed inside she wanted more, her back arched and she groaned.

His hips started to rock, slowly at first, then with a bit more force. Each stroke brought her closer, she cried out, begging for more. Aiden didn't hesitate to give her what she requested. He moved faster, harder inside her, growling with every hard thrust. Mary couldn't hold back any longer, she screamed as her release took her, her head thrown back, her walls gripping Aiden tightly. He groaned and moved with more force, Mary's whole body shook each time but that drove her orgasm to new heights. The pleasure scream that ripped through her coincided with his roar and she felt him push deep and hard. Mary whimpered and squirmed a little but he held himself deep inside her until his own release was complete.

Aiden withdrew from her slowly and Mary allowed him to move her body over his when he sat back against the headboard. She trembled when he pressed inside her again. Mary melted against his chest and both came back to Earth in silence, one wicked talon drawing light designs on her back. Mary's eyes were closed and she listened to his heart beat. Eventually his softened member slipped out of her body and Mary shuddered. Aiden tightened his arms around her.

"That would be a very short letter." He murmured.

"What would?" She asked, still not feeling able to move on her own.

"The one describing your shortcomings as a mate." He chuckled softly and so did she. Mary squirmed against him. He was silent for a moment. "Do you still feel inadequate?"

"No." She sighed. "Sometimes I feel like I don't know all the things anyone else would know, and I worry that I'll break your mood when I stop you." 

"You also inspire my mood, dear one. If you need a few moments or a few words to find comfort, then I give them to you without reservation." He kissed the top of her head, then lifted her, carrying her to the recently renovated bathroom.

Mary had always thought her bathroom was poorly designed, but she wasn't sure how to make it better. When she saw a picture of a completely open shower she knew exactly what she wanted. The tub had been replaced and repositioned and the toilet given it's own enclosure, leaving an entire wall free. The cracked black and white ceramic tile had been replaced by honed travertine in a golden color. The floor sloped gently down to two drains. One shower head was Mary's height, the other was more suited to Aiden, but still didn't quite fit him. The builder would have asked too many questions.

At first, Aiden had been unsure about bathing inside, citing centuries of his kind washing in lakes, rivers and snowfall. Most of the time that's still what he did, but at times like this when they were both messy he found the shower convenient at least. He still didn't understand why she insisted on using hot water, but that was the beauty of each having his or her own control. On her part, Mary found that she was still uncomfortable sometimes when he watched her bathe. She was more comfortable being naked with him, but most of that exposed time was spent in dim light. In the bright light of the bathroom Mary felt that every perceived flaw was on display. 

He set her on her feet and held her until she got her balance again. For a few minutes, both washed in silence and Mary began to think about the fact that she was going to have to tell him about her trip tomorrow. She worked the shampoo through her hair slowly, her eyes closed. She jumped when he took over. She moaning when his talons scraped lightly over her scalp, goosebumps raising on her skin in spite of the hot water.

"I don't know how your fragile skin stands so much heat." He laughed softly.

"I don't know how you can stand that cold." She smiled over her shoulder, stepped away and rinsed her hair. When she turned off the water on her side Aiden pulled her under his icy spray, lifting her so that her toes barely touched the floor. Mary screeched and giggled, squirming in his strong grip.

"I think I prefer the effect cold has on you." He grinned and stared at her hard nipples. Mary blushed deeply.

"You know a lot of other ways to get that to happen." Mary laughed. "Now let me go before I get frostbite."

"Why waste an opportunity?" He kissed the side of her neck and set her on her feet again. Mary laughed, poked him lightly in the ribs and trotted away to get a towel.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary dried her hair and then curled up in her chair, still wearing her long, terrycloth robe. She pulled an afghan around her shoulders an toyed with the idea of starting a fire. The longer she waited, the harder it seemed to tell him, especially after the mood was so light. He joined her in a few minutes. When he was holding the crocheted blanket Mary slipped out of her robe and pressed her body to his.

"Your skin is cold." He smirked.

"I wonder why." Mary laughed softly. "How come you can be out in the cold or under cold water and still be warm?" She relaxed against him.

"I have never considered that before. I believe it is simply the nature of my kind, perhaps because of the way we spend our days." He stroked her back softly and both were silent for a time. "Something is troubling you, child." He said softly.

"What makes you say that?" Mary squirmed against him.

"When I woke my consciousness was not completely clouded by desire. You started to say something, but I interrupted you." He lifted her chin. Mary's heart was pounding, she swallowed hard.

"I'm going to London tomorrow to meet with Robert Barnaby." The words came out in a rush. Aiden was silent.

"Colin is going with you?" He asked finally.

"No, I'm going alone." Mary said, her eyes on his.

"No, you will not." He said finally.

"Aiden-" She started.

"There is no honorable reason that a female who is mated would meet alone with another male." He said firmly. "You will not go."

"Why would I tell you at all if I planned this as a tryst?" Mary was angry. She knew his history with Bergit and that he was still not entirely accustomed to the freedom of modern women, but there were times his suspicion was maddening.

"Perhaps that is not your plan, that does not change the fact that you would be alone and unprotected. Why would a man of honor set those kind of conditions if he has pure motives?" His tone was absolutely logical and that upset Mary even more.

"He didn't set the conditions, I called him." Mary responded. Aiden sat back and looked at her with narrowed eyes.

"You will explain this." The tone in his voice frightened Mary. She pulled the blanket around herself again and moved back to her chair.

"You remember that it was Robert Barnaby's father who blew up one of the statues." She tried to keep her voice from shaking.

"Yes." He said cautiously.

"After my visit the other night I started thinking about that again and how it seemed so coincidental that it was destroyed when it was, and I wondered if my guest had anything to do with it." Aiden looked more curious than angry now. Mary went on, more calmly. "I thought I was probably being paranoid, but I couldn't seem to get it out of my head. I called Robert Barnaby and asked if his father had had a similar guest, thinking he would say no."

"And he didn't?" Aiden asked.

"He refused to talk about it on the phone. It was strange, one minute he was shuffling papers, typing something on his computer, moving in his chair, all the little things a person does at work and then the next minute there was nothing. I thought I lost the connection, obviously I hit a nerve but he said he would only tell me in person. If I'm going to have a chance against the thing that visited here the other night, I have to know what I'm up against." Aiden held his chin in one hand, considering her words. 

"I see the logic in that, but why must you go alone?" He asked.

"I got the impression that whatever he wanted to tell me was for my ears only, but beyond that I didn't want to leave Maureen completely alone here. I could wait until you wake, but then I'd be meeting him for dinner and that would feel strange. I don't want to stay alone in London for the night, either." Aiden was silent again, then he held his hand out to Mary. She took it and let him draw her back into his lap, Mary settled against him somewhat cautiously. She looked up into his eyes. "Do you really think that I want someone else?"




Heart of Stone Ch. 06



"No child. I do not like this, but I will make no further complaint." He rested his chin against the top of her head and tightened his arms around her. "What time will you return?"

*~*~*~*~*~*

Robert Barnaby's office was in the Financial District at St Martins Le Grand. When he had given her the location on the phone it had meant nothing to her. Stepping into the marble clad entrance made her feel as though she was out of her element and she was suddenly glad she wore the navy blue skirt suit that had seemed a little too much when she dressed. Once she found her way the the suite occupied by Barnaby & Associates she was stopped by an imposing, silver-haired private secretary. Her gray dress seemed to match the multiple shades of silver and gray the offices were done in. 

"I'm sorry, Miss Beeson, but you don't have an appointment." The older woman pursed her lips and looked at Mary over the steel rims of her glasses. "Mr. Barnaby will not be available until nine-thirty on the-" she flipped several pages in the appointment calendar. "twelfth of June, that's in three weeks. Shall I pencil you in?"

"I just talked to him yesterday, he invited me for lunch-"

"You don't understand, Miss. No one sees Mr. Barnaby without an appointment and he never schedules lunch with clients, so if you'd like to take that nine-thirty I'll arrange that for you." The woman was looking at Mary as if she was a simpleton and Mary felt her heart starting to pound.

"I'm not a client, there's a personal matter I need to discuss with him and he asked me to come." She was trying to keep the desperate tone out of her voice.

"There's really nothing I can do about that. The lifts are just down the corridor on your right."

"At least tell him I'm here." The note of desperation wasn't concealed this time, nor was her growing anger.

"Mr. Barnaby is a very busy man and if I interrupted him with every little detail that came up throughout the day he would never be able to accomplish anything. I don't want to call security, but I will if I need to." She smiled a cold smile and laid a hand on the telephone. Mary was at a loss for words. She decided to go down to the lobby and call from her cell when the inner office door opened by a man in a charcoal colored suit, he looked to be in his fifties.

"Angela, when Miss Beeson gets here would you please-" He looked at her curiously. "Are you Mary Beeson?"

"Yes. Mr. Barnaby?" He smiled a warm smile.

"Robbie, to my friends. Do come in, it's a pleasure to meet you face to face." Mary couldn't resist a little smile as she walked past the red-faced Angela and into the comfortable, but still gray inner office. She head him speak a few more words to Angela before coming in again. "Please, sit down." He smiled and indicated the black leather sofa, he took the end opposite the one she chose.

"Call me Mary. I appreciate you seeing me on such short notice like this, Angela tells me that you're a very busy man." Mary couldn't resist a little smile.

"She is a bit of a bulldog I'm afraid, though in her defense I did forget to tell her I was expecting you. I hope Chinese take-away is alright, I didn't think to ask when we were speaking."

"It's fine, I hope you know I didn't mean to upset you when I called."

"Think nothing of it." Angela knocked softly and brought food in. She took plates and utensils from a cabinet and set up the meal on a steel and glass table in the corner. She retreated silently and he poured wine for both of them. "As you can see, I tend to spend a great deal of time here. Normally I take lunch out, but I would rather not be interrupted, or overheard." They sat across from each other.

"I don't think I ever asked what you do." Mary took a bite of the shrimp with snow peas and found it delicately seasoned and delicious.

"I shuffle money around and hopefully there is more at the end than there was at the beginning. Damn boring most of the time, but I suppose it keeps me from having too much fun in life." He chuckled softly and Mary did too. "But what about you, I had the impression you were returning to America, when did you decide to stay?"

"I don't really have it narrowed down to an exact date. I guess I realized that didn't really have any family or close friends there, and I do have people here that I would miss terribly if I left." It was the simple truth with a strategic omission. Their conversation flowed to lighter topics and she decided to let him approach the reason for this meeting in his own way.

"Frankly, I was surprised you kept the Hall." 

"Why?" Mary sipped her wine and found herself at ease with Robert Barnaby, and that was a rare thing. Strangers had always made her nervous and even though she had gotten better at relating to people she wasn't usually so calm at a first meeting.

"I was there once when I was fifteen or sixteen with my father. He went to visit Ambrose, but whatever they discussed I was excluded from the conversation so I wandered around a bit. No matter where I went in the old place I felt as if I was being watched by something. Not something bad, just something I couldn't describe. Probably the overactive imagination of youth, but it made a strong impression on me at the time. The other reason is, well, it's rather rude I'm afraid. The house and land are worth a small fortune. When I realized you were young and an American I thought you might look at the profit to be made and sell the old place."

"To be honest I had no idea what to do with it at first, or if I should do anything with it. I thought about opening it as one of those 'historic home' tour houses, but what I've been able to find about the house's history isn't all that interesting." She laughed with him and was surprised to find that her glass was nearly empty. "Honestly, I don't think selling it ever occurred to me though."

"Have some more." He moved to pour more wine for her, but she put her hand over her glass.

"It's very good, but I'm driving home this evening. Anyway, I'm used the Hall now. It was big and overwhelming at first, but now it's just home." Mary used her knife to push the last of her fried rice onto her fork. "So your father knew Ambrose?"

"Yes. My father told me it was a business relationship, but that didn't really have the ring of truth. Are you sure you won't have some more?" He offered the bottle again, but Mary shook her head. He refilled his own glass. "Something else instead? I'm sure I have some bottled water."

"That would be wonderful, thank you." Mary took the bottle of water and moved back to the place he indicated on the sofa. He picked up the phone on his desk before joining her.

"Angela, we're finished with lunch." She came in and silently cleared the plates and cutlery.

"You have an appointment in fifteen minutes, Mr. Barnaby." Angela was looking at Mary when she said it.

"Give whoever it is coffee and tell them I've been delayed, I don't want to be disturbed until after Mary and I are finished."

"But it's Mr. Clement-"

"Fine, offer him a glass of scotch and tell him I've been delayed." Angela looked as if she wanted to protest but instead she withdrew silently. He looked at Mary again. "Now, where were we?"

"I wondered why you thought your father didn't actually have business with Ambrose." Mary sipped the water.

"I should tell you a bit about my father first, and about Ambrose. When my father came into his inheritance there was precious little family money left. That's not so unusual really, a wastrel or two in the family tree and what took generations to build is frittered away. Anyway, my father wasn't happy starving with dignity. He took all the cash he could put his hands on and invested in foreign currency. Of course everyone thought he was insane, but the gamble paid off royally and, after Father had not only rebuilt the family fortune but added to it even the scoffers were lining up for his advice. That was when he started the firm. Ambrose was one of his first clients. Ambrose's style was a great deal more conservative than my father's so after a couple of big wins they parted ways amicably. I always got the impression that there was a longer standing relationship there. By the time we visited him, I knew there was no financial business between them. It was unlike my father to lie to me or anyone else though." He took a long swallow of the wine. Mary sensed that there was more to come, so she remained silent and waited.

"Before he destroyed the statue, he began trying to tell me about some connection our family had to a dozen or so other families who were spread out all over the country, yours included. Of course in the state he was in it sounded like raving, but it was different in a way too."

"In what way different?" She asked quietly. He sighed and looked at the wine in his glass.

"I don't know how to explain that. There was an intensity about him, as if there was something that he absolutely had to tell me, but he couldn't put the words together properly."

"It's not my intention to pry into your family's affairs, but had your father's mental health been declining?"

"No, that's one of the things that was so strange about the situation. He was getting on of course, but mentally he was as sharp as ever." He drained the glass in a single, long swallow. "It started the night that Dar-"

"Please," Mary interrupted. "this may sound very silly but I'd appreciate it if you didn't say his name."

"Not at all, now I'm certain we're speaking of the same person. Father retired several years ago and he spent the majority of his time at the family estate, I would go home at the week end. One Friday evening I arrived and found Father in the drawing room with our unnamed stranger. That wasn't unusual, Father was always very sociable and would entertain just about anyone, from a tramp to a lord. Naturally I went in to join them, but Father became enraged. He actually accused me of spying on him. The man stayed for hours and I ate dinner alone that evening. After the man left, Father refused to speak to me for the rest of the night." He looked down at his empty glass. Mary was silent, giving him his moment.

"And the next day?" She asked softly.

"He had calmed a bit, and he told me that his guest was 'enlightening' him. His eyes were wild, it was like nothing I have ever seen before and I hope I never see anything like it again. His guest returned that evening and this time I managed to sneak a glimpse of the two of them together when the maid brought them a light dinner. Father looked, hypnotized, for lack of a better word. The man just sat there, speaking to him in this soft, droning voice. After he was even more paranoid than the night before, saying that I wanted to keep him from getting to the treasure. That was the first I had heard of any treasure." Mary thought of the pressure she felt against her mind and sipped the water, because movement seemed to be what she needed to dispel the memory.

"Could you hear what was being said when you looked in?" She almost hated to ask the question.

"No. In a way I'm almost glad I couldn't. I might have become somehow enraptured myself. He visited on Sunday evening as well according to the servants. I returned home that Monday night, I couldn't concentrate anyway and I was considering bringing a doctor in. That was the night he tried to tell me about these connections. His guest returned once more and only stayed for a moment. I'm of the opinion that he brought my father the explosives he used, but I can't prove that."

"What do the police think?" Mary spoke softly, even though her mind was racing. She found herself very tempted to tell him that he was right and that his father had been right. There WAS a connection between those families. She still wasn't certain that she could trust him with the entire truth.

"I didn't involve them. We're rather remote and he had sent all the servants away. When no one inquired about the sound I thought it best to simply clean up the mess and go on. Father was in no condition to tolerate an official inquiry."

"Is he doing better now?" Mary was honestly concerned.

"One might say that. After it was done, he became completely incoherent and paranoid. A few days after that he stopped recognizing any of us and he became combative with everyone. My brother and I had to physically restrain him so he wouldn't harm himself while we waited for the doctor to arrive. He slipped into a coma before he could be sedated, and passed away a few days later." He sighed deeply and turned to her for the first time since they started talking about the strange visitor.

"I'm so sorry." She said.

"Father wouldn't have wanted to live in that state." He tried to manage a smile. "Perhaps now you think I've gone round the bend myself, talking about all of these suspicions and strange theories."

"No, I don't. The few minutes I spent with that man was enough to give rise to all kinds of suspicions of my own, that's why I called you. I appreciate you sharing all of this with a complete stranger." Mary finished the last of the water in her bottle. "I shouldn't take any more of your time today. Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me all this."

"You're very welcome, Mary. It's a pleasure getting to know you." He walked with her to the door.

"It's a pleasure getting to know you too. Maybe you'd like to visit the Hall again sometime." 

"I would like that very much. Call me next week and we'll arrange something. You have my private number?" He took her hand and she sensed a strong vibration that traveled from his hand to hers and registered in the place in her mind that her magic resided. Mary's eyes widened.

"Yes." She said after a moment. "And thank you for a delicious lunch."

"You're most welcome. I look forward to your call." 

Mary sat in her car for a moment, trying to collect her thoughts. The impression she got at the end of the meeting was definite. Robbie Barnaby was highly skilled in magic and in that unguarded moment he probably sensed her skill as well. She started the car and decided a little shopping was what she needed to restore a sense of normalcy.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary returned home just before sundown. She left her shopping bags on the bed, kicked off her heels and went out onto the balcony. She sat sideways on the wide railing and looked out over the trees. The whole drive home had been consumed with thoughts of how to approach Aiden. Fighting with him would just upset them both and wouldn't solve anything, neither would ignoring the matter. As she waited for him to wake though, she grew even more nervous than she had been the night before.

"How long have you been back?" He asked softly.

"Not long. I did a little shopping after I left Robbie's office." She turned to face him.

"Robbie, is it." His eyes narrowed.

"Yes, and he refers to me as Mary." She responded quietly, in a matter-of-fact tone.

"All very friendly." He said, looking away from her. "I am certain that you had a very pleasant day indeed."

"Moderately pleasant. Lunch was delicious, he's very charming, and urbane. We had a nice discussion, and I learned a great deal more about my visitor." Mary walked over to him, and stood between his legs. "And he's not you." Aiden turned his head quickly and looked at her curiously.

"I love you Aiden. I don't know to say it more clearly, or how to make you believe it. This constant battle to prove my loyalty to you is a fight I don't think I can ever win and that scares me." One arm wrapped around her waist and he lifted her into his lap, and Mary snuggled against his chest.

"Scares you in what way, child?" He asked softly. Mary sighed, still unsure how to start.

"There are times I don't want to tell you things because I'm afraid of how you'll react, and sneaking around doesn't feel right either. I don't like walking on eggshells. I don't like feeling like I'm always hurting you." Mary was blinking back tears, his arms tightened around her.

"That was never my intent." His cheek rested against her head and he took a deep breath. "I fear losing you to one of your own kind."

"Why?" She looked up at him.

"To males of my kind, human females have always been beautiful and desirable. Matings were strictly forbidden by both cultures, but that did not end the fascination. That feeling only flowed in one direction however. We are not attractive by human standards and never have been. Even when we had close ties to your kind, we were considered ugly. I fear that the more time you spend with males of your own kind, the more likely you are to feel we mated in error." His arms tightened around her.

"I can't hide in a tower for the rest of my life, and even if I tried I would end up resenting you." Mary curled up against him. "Besides, your looks don't have anything to do with why I love you."

"And how am I to take that?" He laughed softly, Mary did too.

"Okay that sounded really bad." She snuggled against his chest. "I don't think of you as ugly. At first I was scared, but I'd never imagined a statue come to life. As I got to know you though, I stopped seeing the wings and the horns or all the things that make you different from me. You're just the man I love because you're patient with me, and you make me laugh, and you made me feel safe. Not just physically safe, but I know I can share with you. I can't imagine turning to someone else for all the things that I turn to you for."

He was silent for a long moment, one hand cradled the back of her head, the other arm held her close. Finally he drew a long sigh.

"No one has ever referred to me as a man before." His voice was soft.

"What else would I call you?" She kissed his shoulder softly.

"I have hurt you, child. Not by design or intent, but I have harmed you." He whispered next to her ear.

"Yes, but I forgive you, and I know we can make it better." Mary was starting to shiver. The evening had been cool, but now the wind was downright cold. 

"Yes we will, but we will do it inside." He picked her up and Mary relaxed in his arms.



Heart of Stone Ch. 07



Author's Note: I'm so glad that so many people are enjoying this story. I love hearing from all of you and hope you continue to enjoy it as the chapters go on and the mystery unravels.

psyche b

7. Gains and Losses

Mary woke up on the sofa in the library and saw Maureen pacing nervously. She looked like she as considering how to approach something and not certain the best way to go about it. Maureen had gotten better at speaking her mind, and Mary was glad that her housekeeper didn't feel the need to tiptoe around as much anymore. Mary sat up and the older woman jumped.

"Sorry." Mary yawned. "Aiden and I were up talking until almost sunrise."

"So you told him then?" Maureen sat down next to Mary.

"I told him about my visit with Robbie, yes." Maybe it was just the lack of sleep but Mary was at a loss why the housekeeper would be so concerned about it. Maureen knew there was something odd about Mary's strange guest, but she had told her very little about her suspicions. For some reason, that seemed safer.

"I don't mean that." The older woman waved dismissively. "I mean, the," She searched for the right word. "The other matter." Maureen's face was absolutely serious. Mary felt like she was missing something important.

"Maureen, I didn't sleep as much as I should have last night and I just woke up now so I'm really not following what you mean."

"I shouldn't have mentioned it, it's really none of my business." Maureen got up again.

"But you did and I'm going to be worried all day about what it is if you don't tell me." Mary said. Maureen sat again and took a deep breath.

"When you said that Mr. Aiden was your mate, did you mean that you and he are physically close, like a husband and wife?" Maureen was blushing as she asked the question and after meaning registered in Mary's tired mind, she blushed too.

"Yes, that's one of the things it means."

"Then, with you being sick like you are, have you considered that you might be, well, in a family way?"

Mary leaned back and closed her eyes, fighting down the swell of emotion that threatened to overwhelm her. She had started to consider the possibility that she might be pregnant, especially when she realized how late she was. Before she could even consider doing something to find out one way or the other she got the answer.

"If I was, I'm not anymore." She said. "I started my period this morning. It doesn't seem right to tell him now and upset him."

"I'm so sorry, Miss. I should have kept my mouth shut." The older woman looked wounded by her own bad timing.

"It's alright Maureen." Mary sighed deeply, she had cried before coming downstairs, but now the loss seemed fresh all over again. "The truth is, I don't even know if I can have children with Aiden. We're so different."

"Are you sure you want to?" Maureen sounded shocked, then she turned red. "No, that didn't come out right." Mary laughed softly.

"Don't worry about it, I know what you mean. I guess it looks kind of strange to most people." Mary blushed a little too. Maureen had never said anything about Mary's relationship with Aiden. Mary knew that the older couple liked Aiden once they got to know him, but feeling comfortable with him wasn't the same as understanding Mary's feelings for him. She didn't really want to try and explain it right now, either. "Maggie's being unusually quiet today."

Normally Maggie could be heard banging around in some part of the house and, if one was close enough, the dour maid's line of mumbled complaints and curses could be clearly heard. Mary was disturbed by it at first because she'd never been around anyone that seemed so openly angry at the world. Aunt Patrice never seemed particularly happy with life in general, mostly because any kind of fun was sinful, but she was silent about it. Maggie made certain that everyone knew her life had not turned out as she had hoped and her complaints had become like the creaks and groans the house made; background noise that was only noticed if it wasn't there.

"I wouldn't know." Maureen got up. "She didn't show up today."

The fog of sleep completely receded when Mary heard that. Something uncomfortable began to press against her consciousness.

"She's never done that before, has she?" Mary got up and leafed through her phone book, looking for Maggie's number.

"No, Miss." She watched Mary dial. "If you're trying to call, the number's been disconnected. She's probably run off somewhere with that boyfriend of hers." Mary listened to the recording and then cradled the receiver.

"She has a boyfriend?" Mary said, truly surprised that anyone would be interested in spending time with such and unhappy woman.

"He's a drunk from what I hear, but yes. Her whole family is the same way though, the men drink to deal with the women complaining and the women complain about how much the men drink. You're going to be alright?" She still looked concerned.

"Yes, thanks." Mary managed a smile. "Did I hear the phone ring earlier?" She sank down into the large chair behind the desk. 

"You did. I'm sorry Miss, I completely lost track. It was Mr. Barnaby, he'd like you to call him at his office as soon as possible. He left the number, if you need it." 

"No, thanks Maureen. If you need any help with chores today, let me know." Mary said. The housekeeper looked at her strangely. 

"You won't be able to find a girl to start so soon." She said.

"I meant that I would help. I do know how to do housework you know." Mary laughed softly.

"I doubt things are that dire, Miss." She smiled and left Mary alone.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Barnaby." He said simply.

"Robbie, it's Mary. My housekeeper made your message sound desperate." She tried to keep her tone light, but something told her that it shouldn't be.

"That's the impression I gave her. I've had some news of our visitor."

"He's been to see you?" Mary asked, sitting forward in her chair.

"No, I think he's finished with my family for now, but I have a friend, Andrew Cranmore, who found our guest speaking with his elderly mother."

"Is she-?"

"No, apparently the old dear isn't entirely well to begin with and he has a nurse who keeps a close watch on her. Our friend came in while the nurse was on the telephone in another part of the house. When as she returned, our friend was escorted out. According to what Andy told me it was before he could do any damage."

"Well thank goodness for that." Mary leaned back in her chair again and made a note of the name. She was fairly certain that Cranmore's mother wouldn't have been visited unless they had a statue, Mary couldn't remember that name from Aiden's lists though. "I'm not sure why your call was so urgent though."

"Because we need to talk, and I don't mean a light conversation over lunch. I hate to impose but does that invitation to the Hall apply for this week end?"

"Absolutely." Mary said without hesitation. "And bring your wife if you like."

"That's a kind offer," He chuckled softly. "But I'm a confirmed bachelor. It makes certain things easier. Shall we say Saturday afternoon, around three?"

The comment about his bachelorhood sounded ominous to Mary, but everything did these last few days. She brushed it aside and finalized the visit in genial tones she hoped sounded convincing.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Robbie is coming to a visit on Saturday." Mary told Aiden softly. They were on his island, her back against his chest, her legs straddling his lap. His hand stroked her stomach under her shirt.

"You must have made quite an impression on him." Aiden's words didn't hold the snide cruelty they had the day before, but the uncertainty was still there though.

"I think it has less to do with me and more to do with my guest." Mary related the conversation and incident with Andrew Cranmore's mother.

"Cranmore? The name is not familiar to me." He said.

"It's not familiar to me either, but if she's being visited then I can only assume they have at least one statue. After all this time though the fact that the name has changed isn't really all that surprising. Cranmore might be a descendant of one of the names on the list, or one of them might have sold the estate to him or one of his predecessors. I'll try to find out more on Saturday." Mary sighed and listened to the tapestry of sounds the night wove around them. "I feel responsible for all of this." She said finally.

"You had nothing to do with setting this in motion." Aiden sounded shocked that she would even think such a thing.

"Maybe I didn't set it in motion, but it all seems to revolve around me. If I hadn't-"

"Stop." He said next to her ear. His arms tightened around her. "You willingly take up burdens that are not your own and it pains me to see you laboring under the weight of them. This entire thing is little more than a clock. It was set in motion in the dim past and now it is about to strike midnight. That will happen no matter who is in the room."

"I'm not used to being," Mary closed her eyes and searched for the right word. "Being special. I mean I know you think of me that way, but, I've never had a larger purpose that I've known about before. Now I'm chasing all over a strange country after a phantom, and trying to put a puzzle together when I don't know if I have all the pieces and I don't know what the end product is supposed to look like."

"We are all equal to the destiny we have been given, child." His lips brushed the spot just below her ear. "I have told you my father was the leader of our clan?"

"Yes." Mary said softly.

"By the time I was born, he had been leading for a several years. It was not until much later that I learned he tried pass the role to another."

"Why would he want to do that? I thought roles in your society were more strictly defined." Mary was always fascinated when he talked about his past and the way his culture worked.

"They are strictly defined, but not always strictly pleasing." He chuckled softly. "My father was more interested in healing. He had good deal of skill too, that is how he met my mother. He was ready to let the leadership of the clan pass to his half-brother Goran."

"But he didn't?" Mary asked.

"For a time, he did. In those few months Goran nearly succeeded in dismantling the entire clan for his own personal gain. He sold several of our females into slavery because their fathers had slighted him in some small way. Alliances that had been in place for generations were crumbling because of his insults. My father kept himself distant from the conflict in the beginning, there are always wrinkles to be ironed out when leaders change. As time went on though, our clan was becoming more and more isolated and it became clear that Goran was not going to settle into a prudent style of governance."

"But your father had already passed on the opportunity." Mary said, her eyes closed, trying to picture Aiden's father.

"Yes and no." She could hear the little smile in his voice. "There is always a time of transition when a successor can be openly challenged. My father clearly saw what his place was meant to be and so he took it without further regret. He maintained his other interest and skill however."

"Goran couldn't have stepped aside easily." Mary said.

"No, though after he was dead he was remarkably silent on the matter." Aiden responded.

"Is that always the answer? To kill the one you disagree with?" She asked.

"Not always, in fact it is quite rare. Perhaps I have only told you of the most dramatic incidents and situations. The point is, my father did not believe he was meant to lead. You do not believe you are equal to your purpose. Just as he was, so are you." Mary turned to looked at him over her shoulder.

"You really believe that." She said.

"Of course I do, child. Though I see that you do not." He smiled and stroked her cheek. Mary could feel tears welling up and in spite of her resolution to remain silent her body began to shake with the force of her grief. He shifted her body carefully so that she was facing him. Mary held him tightly with her arms and legs and sobbed. In fits and starts, through gasping breaths she related the initial uncertainty of the pregnancy and the absolute certainty of the loss of it. Aiden simply held her, one large hand stroking her back, the other cradling her head. 

"Such things happen sweet one." His voice was soft, but she heard the hitch of sadness in it. Even through her tears she recognized that that soothing tone was as much for his own benefit as it was for hers. "We will have a child when the time is right."

"I'm sorry." She stroked his back and slid a bit more toward his knees. Even in the low light she noticed his tears. He looked at her curiously.

"Sorry for what? This was an act of nature." Mary reached up and brushed the tears off of his cheeks.

"I know, but I still worry that-" He laid a finger over her lips.

"You have no cause to worry. You are young and healthy and males of my kind can continue to sire children well into old age. Even with all of our differences, I believe it will happen." He kissed her lightly. "Shall we go back?"

Mary nodded and tightened her arms and legs when he stood. She wasn't entirely certain that he was right, but his confidence did give her comfort. She shivered a little as the cool, night air started rushing past her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Robbie arrived promptly at three on Saturday afternoon and to Mary's surprise, Andrew Cranmore was with him. Andy looked to be at least ten years younger than Robbie, but Mary had always been bad at judging people's ages. Mary got the same shock of recognition when she took his hand that she had with Robbie, only this time she covered it better. 

They had coffee and then Mary gave them a tour of the house. She noticed the look that passed between the two men when they walked by her new statue. Mary and Colin had designed plantings and added a bench to the area to make it seem like a part of the garden. The plants had filled in nicely and the affect was quite pleasing. She didn't think they were admiring her choice of shrubbery though.

The conversation through dinner was light and so pleasant that Mary was almost able to forget the purpose of the visit. When they'd finished she asked Maureen to bring coffee and dessert into the library. Once everyone had a cup of coffee and a slice of cake the housekeeper left quietly. As soon as the door was shut Andy set his aside.

"You've woken one of them up, haven't you?" The harsh tone shocked Mary.

"Andy! We discussed this." Robbie's voice was shocked and salted heavily with anger.

"Maybe you're content to chat about houses and decorating and all kinds of silliness, but I didn't come all this way to make small talk." The shift was almost frightening in a way. Only moments before she wouldn't have guessed all that venom was seething under the surface. Robbie sighed.

"I'm sorry Mary, I had hoped to approach this more delicately," He glared at his companion. "But since that's not possible anymore, have you woken one of them?"

Both men were watching her, one angrily, one curiously. Mary's hand trembled and her fork rattled against the plate, she set aside before she dropped it.

"I don't know what you mean." Her voice sounded steadier than she felt. Andy opened his mouth but Robbie shot him a glacial look.

"You do know." He said softly. 

"I don't-"

"Mary, we're on you're side in this." Andy gave a derisive snort, Robbie ignored him and leaned forward. "Trust us."

"I'm supposed to trust him?" Mary jabbed her finger at Andy and was surprised at her sudden anger. "He comes into my house and acts all friendly until he thinks he can blindside me. And you," she turned back to Robbie. "Every time I talk to you it's a different story and now I'm suppose to just tell you whatever you want to know?"

Andy's face was bright red and he started to make a small gesture, Robbie grabbed his wrist.

"She needs a to be taught-" Andy growled.

"Do you think she's ever been taught anything?" Robbie answered.

"SHE is in the room." Mary said. "And she wasn't raised in a barn either." It was one of Aunt Patrice's favorite sayings and Mary cringed to hear it coming out of her own mouth, no matter the context.

"Of course not Mary, this isn't what I intended this meeting to be at all." He sat back and drank some of his coffee. "I couldn't tell you the whole story when we met the other day because I still wasn't certain about you. We didn't actually touch until you were leaving." He smiled slightly.

"Then it's not my imagination? That -- feeling?" She asked, looking from one man to the other. She was surprised to see Andy's face soften. 

"No, it's not your imagination." Robbie said with a little smile. "My father wasn't just raving when he said our families were connected. They have been for centuries because we sheltered the last of the gargoyles. Your ancestors were certain they could reverse the spell that bound them, but the rest of us weren't sure we should get involved with magic. We came around soon enough and while succeeding generations have become more skilled, the real power has always rested with your family. That hasn't changed. We can tell that one of the gargoyles is awake, and we know that none of us has the ability to do that." 

Mary's head was spinning. Denying it wouldn't do any good and she had to trust someone.

"I didn't try to, I don't even know how it happened." Mary's voice was soft. Andy sat forward.

"Were you reading something? One of Ambrose's journals maybe?" He asked eagerly.

"No." She went through the story of Aiden's waking again.

"That makes no sense." The frustration was back in Andy's voice. "It takes words to make or break a spell."

"That's not quite true." Robbie had a thoughtful look on his face. "The words focus and hold the will until it's released by an act. If there is no act, the will remains in a kind of stasis. It's possible that Ambrose or someone in his line began something but couldn't perform the act that finished it." 

"Are you completely certain that I'm as skilled as you say?" Mary asked. "I didn't understand a word of that."

"I keep forgetting you're untrained" He chuckled.

"He's trained," She look at Andy. "He didn't know either."

"I'm trained to my level of natural ability, but I'm not able to go beyond that." Andy looked a little embarrassed by the admission.

"Everyone is born with some natural ability, most have very little to begin with and are easily convinced that magic is no more than a trick or imagination." Robbie explained. Mary picked up her cake and started to eat. "That ability can be nurtured, but a person is never able to surpass what they're born with. I was born with more than Andy, you were born with more than me."

"So the families, or their representatives, all have different levels of ability?" Mary asked. It was quite a bit to take in.

"Different levels of ability and different functions within the group." Andy said. He and Robbie had both started eating dessert. "This is very good, by the way."

"Thank you." Mary said. "There's a little bakery in the village that has the most amazing things."

"Ambrose didn't leave any of this in his journals?" Robbie asked.

"Not in any of the ones I've found. As far as I know I've been through the whole house." Mary set aside her empty dessert plate and picked up her coffee cup. Almost absently she thought the words and steam began to rise from it again. She took a sip of the pleasantly hot liquid. 

"You didn't even think about that, did you?" Andy sounded envious, Mary wasn't sure how to respond.

"Not a whole lot I guess, no. Is that strange?" She looked curiously from Andy to Robbie. 

"Not so much strange as impressive." Robbie smiled. "Andy's family has kept the history of the group itself, beginning with his ancestor Dorian Alwynn."




Heart of Stone Ch. 07



"Dorian disliked being in a position where he actually had to DO something that might be unpopular, the only way he would agree to be involved at all was if he could keep records and nothing more. Your ancestor, Cyril, knew that he wanted one cohesive group so he agreed. From all accounts, he was also a very forward-thinking man. Dorian's son took his father's view of involvement, his grandson didn't, but, he had very little natural ability. We still keep records, but we've also developed and nurtured our skill as well. Is there more coffee?" Andy asked.

"I think there's more in the pot." She picked it up and refilled everyone's cup and let them add the sugar and milk themselves. "Let me see if I understand this, each person is born with a certain level of natural magical ability and even if that ability is nurtured they can't go beyond that natural level."

"Yes. That changes as the skill travels down through the generations. Once someone is trained, if they have a child the child's natural ability will surpass that of the parent. It's all rather Lamarckian* in a way." Robbie said.

"What if that child remains untrained?" Mary asked.

"The level of natural skill doesn't grow or lessen in succeeding generations. Now if both parents are trained things get complicated." Robbie chuckled. Mary was curious but decided that was a topic for another time.

"What do you do in the group?" She asked him.

"I'm a historian as well. I keep the history of the gargoyles, until they can do it themselves. At the moment though, that's more along the lines of just keeping track of where they all are, and if they're still in existence. Admittedly, that doesn't take a great deal of time, so the focus has been on gaining skill. In that department, my family is second to yours." He smiled. "I've helped train the others since Ambrose's passing. Another admission, you had been told that several were destroyed when you were first searching. You have to understand that we didn't know you at the time and we had no idea what your intentions were."

"You mean those others still exist?" Mary asked.

"Yes. The only one that my family sheltered." Robbie said.

"This is a lot to take in." Mary shook her head, feeling like every question they answered spawned a thousand more. "And our visitor?"

Andy and Robbie looked at each other. 

"We've no idea who he is." Andy said. "We have a general idea of what he's doing and we know he's exceptionally powerful. Robbie's father would not have been easily influenced."

"Aiden believes that he isn't human." It took Mary a moment to realize why both men were staring at her. "Aiden is the one I woke." She explained.

"Aiden, son of Darius?" Robbie sounded as if he was trying to convince himself.

"Yes. You knew he was here though, didn't you?" Mary was suddenly nervous, feeling as though she might have made a mistake.

"Yes I knew, but when I saw Esme in the garden I thought it might have been her." Robbie paused a moment, considering something. "Could we meet him?" He said finally.

"I don't know-"

"Mary," Aiden spoke softly from the the door. Mary had been so engrossed in the conversation that she hadn't heard the door open. Both men turned quickly, their eyes and mouths wide. "They know. Refusing now is without point." He smiled softly at her and then turned to the two shocked guests. He looked from one to the other, as if trying to place the two men that he had never met. Robbie was the first to regain some limited composure.

"Hello." Was all he could manage.

"You are the Barnaby." Aiden said to him with certainty. 

"Yes." The surprised man responded. "How did you-"

"You have your ancestor's nose." Aiden smiled benignly and then then looked at Andy. Mary pulled Aiden's large chair over so that he could feel a part of group. "And unless I am mistaken you are an Alwynn." 

"C-Cranmore now." Mary remembered that feeling of shock and awe. Aiden sat down and nodded. 

"When Mary told me your name I could not place it. When did it change?" He asked. Mary could tell that he was trying to put them at their ease in the only way he knew how.

"My great-great-great-grandfather Basil Alwynn had one daughter, but no sons. She married a Cranmore and the name hasn't changed since." Andy sounded as though he was still frightened.

"Aiden, would you like some tea?" Mary asked. She knew that seeing him do things that seemed 'civilized' had helped Maureen and Colin get over this frightening appearance. 

"Maureen is seeing to that, child." He smiled at her.

"I thought your kind didn't take warm food or drink." Robbie said, his curiosity starting to override his fear.

"That has been true for the majority of our existence and to be honest, the thought of eating cooked food still turns my stomach." He smiled softly. "There was something appetizing about the scent of Mary's herbal tea. It does not appeal to me all the time, but there are moments I find I prefer it to other things."

Maureen knocked and brought in a large china pot and Aiden's large cup. She filled the cup and handed it to Aiden.

"Will you be wanting more cake or coffee?" She asked.

"Another pot of coffee, please." Mary said. Both men looked like they were relieved she suggested it. It was clear that it would be a long night, but everyone's curiosity was piqued. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"You are not sleeping, dear one." Aiden's voice was soft. Mary squirmed against his chest and sighed softly. She and Aiden had talked with Robbie and Andy until well after midnight. Very little new information was shared, but everyone became more comfortable and better acquainted The two men accepted her offer of guest rooms and were sleeping in the south wing of the Hall. Mary was still trying to assemble all that she had learned before Aiden's appearance.

"I know. I can't seem to settle my mind." She replied in equally muted tones. He began to massage her lower back and Mary trembled as some of her tension started to melt away. His tail wrapped around her calf.

"The evening was filled with revelations for me as well. I had some vague idea of the existence of this group, but I had no idea they were so organized. I understand the need for secrecy, but it is still difficult to accept that my kind and I were the center of such intense activity for so many years and that neither Lawrence nor Ambrose saw fit to tell me about more than your family's efforts." He kissed the top of her head lightly.

"Why? From everything you told me, your kind had been entwined with mine for a very long time. It seems logical more than one person, or one family would have wanted to see you restored." Her fingers traced light designs on his chest. 

"It is not quite the same. Besides, if the knowledge of my kind and our history have been preserved so diligently, then the knowledge of the prohibitions against our mating still exist as well." His arms tightened around her.

"Maybe, but just because it's in some book somewhere doesn't mean that anyone still believes in it." She kissed him softly. "I know I don't."

"Go to sleep dearest. I'll have to leave in a few hours and I want to know that you have gotten a bit of rest before I go." Mary recognized the worry in his voice but she didn't mention it. She could reassure him from now until the end of time but she couldn't make him believe it. She knew that her guests would be up relatively early too, and she didn't want them to feel abandoned. Mary closed her eyes an tried to relax.

_____________________________

*Jean-Baptiste Lamarck (1744-1829) advanced the once widely accepted theory that an organism can pass on characteristics acquired in its lifetime to its offspring. For example, if an animal continuously stretches its neck to reach food higher in the trees, then its offspring will be born with a longer neck than the previous generation.



Heart of Stone Ch. 08



8. Disappearances, Dates & Documents

The next day, Mary woke before either of her guests. She sat in the kitchen with Maureen, sipped coffee and tried to wake up.

"You look exhausted Miss." When Mary came down in the morning, Maureen usually sat down with her and had coffee. Today, the older woman looked as though she had something she needed to say. Mary was curious but hoped she would have a few minutes to wake up.

"We were up so late last night, and then I couldn't seem to get to sleep afterward." Mary yawned.

"I wanted to tell you, Miss." She started. "I knew that Mr. Ambrose had dealings with all of those people or their families on a regular basis, but I let Colin convince me that if they wanted you to know they would have to tell you themselves."

"Then you knew about Aiden." Mary was surprised.

"I knew what Mr. Ambrose said, but I never for one minute actually believed that the statue was anything more than a piece of stone." She took a long swallow of her coffee. "When Colin told me what he was seeing I assumed all the stories were getting to him. When you introduced us to Mr. Aiden I wanted to tell you what I knew about all of Mr. Ambrose's dealings. Colin reminded me when we got home that we made a promise never to mention the others to anyone. Even though Mr. Ambrose is dead and buried I couldn't make myself go back on my word to him when he was so kind to us."

"It's alright. It just seems like every time I get used to the world one way it gets turned upside down again." She laughed a little. Both women jumped when the doorbell rang.

"Well we're a fine pair, jumping at every little sound." Maureen laughed and went to answer the door. Mary followed her, curious who would drop in so early in the morning.

"Celia?" Even though Mary couldn't see her face she could tell that Maureen was surprised to see whoever Celia was. Mary didn't have to wonder long, the large, disheveled-looking woman in a faded purple dress pushed her way into the house. He dull, graying hair was pulled up into a careless bun that sat off-center on the top of her head. The smell of cheap liquor, cheaper perfume and old sweat preceded her.

"Don't you look at me like you're surprised to see me Maureen March. You're going to tell me what that witch did with my Maggie!" The words seemed to lock up all the air in the immediate area for several long minutes.

"You must be Mrs. Hendrick, Maggie's mother?" Mary asked.

"I ain't never been Mrs. Hendrick." The woman replied indignantly, as if the suggestion offended her. 

"Miss Lange." Maureen supplied quietly.

"Pardon me, Miss Lange. I'm pleased to meet you, will you step into the library so that we can-" She didn't even give Mary a chance to finish.

"You expect me to go anyplace with you?" With each statement the woman's voice was getting louder.

"I just thought that we could talk about-"

"Talk about? There ain't nothing to talk about! I want my daughter back and I'm not leaving this spot until I get her." The woman crossed her thick arms over her ample bosom and stared at Mary. "And don't you try to tell me you don't know where she is, because I know all about you."

"Celia, I understand that you're upset, but you're making a fool of yourself." Maureen hissed. "Why don't you come in to-"

"You've always thought you were better me and my Maggie." She uncrossed her arms, planted her fists on her hips and started walking toward the housekeeper in a menacing way. "She told me all about you, too. Walking around here like your the queen herself and you ain't nothing but a servant."

"Alright I've had enough." Mary stepped between Maureen and the rotund woman. Celia Lange looked shocked that anyone dare do such a thing. "You've barged into my house, you've insulted me, you've insulted my housekeeper and you refuse to tell me what this is about."

"MAGGIE'S GONE!" The woman shrilled and stamped her foot to emphasize her point.

"I KNOW that!" Mary answered in a firm tone. "I'm sorry, but I don't know where she is." The harshness of the tone seemed to surprise the woman and she backed away.

"Why should I believe you? The whole village says that you keep some kind of monster here. How am I supposed to know that she wasn't eaten by it?" The tone in the large woman's voice was almost triumphant.

"Have you taken leave of your senses?" Maureen asked, covering easily for Mary's shock.

"But the whole village-"

"Who says it?" Maureen challenged.

"Freddy Aiken-"

"Is a drunk and everyone knows it." Maureen finished.

"Freddy wasn't drunk when he saw it." Celia replied quickly.

"Celia, use your head. That man hasn't been sober a single day in the last thirty years. You're going to make wild accusations against someone on his say so?" Maureen's tone was mocking and Mary wondered if that was really the best approach to take at this point. It seemed to be getting results though. 

"You think I won't go to the Police?" Celia's face was bright red and she was starting to sweat.

"Go." Mary said with a little shrug. "Are you going to tell them that Maggie was eaten by a monster?" The older woman thought for a minute.

"No. I'm going to tell them that you killed her and that you've got her body hid in here somewhere. Probably lots of places to hide a body in a place like this. You didn't even report her missing, did you?"

"Of course I didn't report-"

"There, you see? That's a clue right there. They'll tear this place apart brick by brick." Celia Lange's piggy eyes narrowed even more as a little grin twisted her lips.

"I didn't report her missing because she's an adult and can go where she wants, when she wants. If she wants to move to the next village, move to London or move to Peru without leaving a new phone number or forwarding address it's not my business." Mary's heart was pounding. It didn't make any sense that Maggie had been abducted. Not many kidnappers canceled the phone service and left the landlady a letter telling her the tenant had moved out. Still, something about the police poking around made her nervous. Celia Lange looked from Mary to Maureen and back again, trying to figure out what to say next.

"You ain't heard the last of me." She stormed out of the house as quickly as she had entered, leaving Mary and Maureen staring at each other.

"Do you think the police would come here?" Mary asked.

"On her word and nothing else? I doubt it." Maureen waved her hand dismissively. "Even if they do, they certainly don't have a reason to search."

"Police?" Robbie asked. Mary hadn't noticed that he was on the stairs. Even though neither man had been formally dressed yesterday the jeans and light sweater he wore today looked much more relaxed. "We haven't overstayed our welcome that badly, have we?" He was smiling, but it was clear that he had heard at least part of the scene that had just played out.

"My maid, Maggie, decided to vanish into thin air. Do you know if Andy is moving around yet?" She asked, realizing that she was hungry and not accustomed to waiting for others to make an appearance before having breakfast. It was one of the many perks of living alone she had discovered.

"Yes, he should be down in a few minutes. I was wondering how you managed such a large house with just Mrs. March."

"I'll bring coffee into the breakfast room." She said and slipped quietly out of the entry. Mary led Robbie into the sunny room decorated in several warms shades of yellow.

"You've redone this room." He looked around and waited until Mary sat down in one of the comfortable white wicker chairs, and then took his own seat. Maureen came in with coffee for three and left again quietly. "I noticed last night but it looks completely different in the bright sunlight."

"Thank you. I don't want to change the house too much, but some of it just needs to be freshened up a bit." Slowly Mary was making small, mostly cosmetic changes in the house and finding that she had a flair for interior decorating. She had found the paint color for this room first. The other shades in the fabric had come from that and plants just seemed a natural addition.

"You're welcome. I take it that was the missing girl's mother who was threatening you with the police."

"Yes." Mary poured a cup of coffee for him and one for herself. "Maggie's not a child, so I suppose if she wants to leave and not contact anyone she has that right. There's something about it that just seems strange to me."

"Something strange on such a beautiful morning?" Andy said as he came in.

"One of her housemaids ran off." Robbie explained.

"Nothing strange in that. Seems like every other month Jean is complaining that this one or that one didn't show up. Then she introduces me to a different one. Frankly, I can't keep them all straight. I think it was easier when they all lived in. Someone was always available at any time of the day or night and they didn't get ideas about running off so often." He said firmly.

"That is positively medieval." Robbie looked slightly shocked. Maureen entered with a tray of sausages, eggs, toast, fruit and the accompanying condiments and left quietly. Everyone took a different dish, served themselves and passed them on.

"Why? It worked for everyone for quite a few years." He spread some raspberry preserves on his toast and took a bite. "That's delicious!"

"Maureen makes it. She'll be happy to know you like it." Mary wasn't sure how to respond to his comment and she intended to let it drop. Robbie didn't have the same intention.

"It worked for a very small number of people, the rest simply didn't have there ability to do anything about it." Robbie took a generous helping of the preserves.

"Says the man whose client list reads like a who's who of the UK." A little sneer twisted Andy's lips as he said it. Mary didn't like the road this was heading down.

"Why was Esme available for public sale?" Her voice was slightly louder than normal, both men looked at her as if they were just remembering her presence. Robbie answered first.

"We didn't know until the sale was already in progress." He said. "Caroline Finch-Griffon had some personal difficulties-"

"HA!" Andy interjected. "'Personal difficulties' means that she married a penniless, shiftless gambler who used her family's money to finance his habits. He bled her dry and left her. She lost the house and everything else. The new owners thought Esme was nothing but an ugly statue, so they put her on the market. Of course dear Caroline couldn't possibly pull together the money to buy Esme back, and she was too humiliated to tell any of the rest of us what was going on. If it wasn't for one of my connections at the auction house we wouldn't have known until we saw her in your garden." He took another slice of toast and more preserves.

"You just bring the glow of sunshine to the breakfast table." Robbie's tone was flat. Andy shrugged.

"I don't like to tiptoe around things like you do." Robbie glared at the other man, as if considering if he wanted to respond. He turned to Mary instead.

"Our group may have a common purpose, but we're not all socially compatible." He explained simply. For a few minutes, the three of them ate silently and Mary was grateful for the quiet. She wondered why Robbie had brought Andy at all, the seemed to dislike each other so intensely. Before she could ask, Robbie spoke again. "How did you happen to know Esme was for sale?"

"Well, you know I had been trying to locate the others. At first it was just so that Aiden would know they still existed. I felt like I was getting nowhere fast so I started looking for the statues as fine art pieces. When I happened upon the information online that there was a 'realistic gargoyle' statue coming up for auction I decided to bid and hope she was like Aiden. Though at the beginning I thought she was a he." Mary still felt a twinge of jealousy when she thought about that. 

"I know the sound of my voice grates on your nerves," Andy said. "But do you intend to tell her?"

"Tell me what?" Mary asked, her heart starting to pound. She looked from one man to the other.

"Cyril found a document written in the gargoyle language that he claimed was from the very beginning of the trouble." Robbie began. Mary noticed that his cup was empty, so she refilled it.

"The beginning? Aiden made it sound like everything happened so fast." Andy cleared his throat and Mary refilled his cup as well.

"Well the final decisive stroke was very quick, but there were years of unrest that lead up to it. Around 600 AD, Pope Gregory sent Augustine and forty monks to England to convert the populace to Christianity. Soon after they learned about the gargoyle's existence the rumblings of unrest began. Of course the church didn't hold much power in the beginning, so the gargoyles remained safe and protected. As the power of the church grew though, it became clear that a confrontation was imminent. Both the gargoyles and the human beings who saw the oppression for what it was tried to find a way to head off the disaster. This is when Cyril claims the document came from."

"Claims? No one believed him?" Mary looked over at Andy, sensing that she was getting into his territory with that question.

"It's not that he wasn't believed," Andy replied. "he never displayed proof one way or the other. He claimed the contents of the document were too shocking to trust others with its safety."

"Well what did it say?" Mary looked from one man to the other. They glanced at each other.

"He claimed it suggested a marital union between the two races. Of course that was strictly against the unspoken rules of both societies." Robbie continued. "Apparently he found the document nearly a century after it was written so the plan had never been put into action and I'm not certain that it would have helped anyway. Cyril was always convinced that it would have worked if it had been put into practice though."

"The rest of the group wasn't so sure." Andy said. "And no one in your line ever produced the document either. Without that, or some corroboration from the gargoyles themselves, it was considered as simply Cyril's idea." 

Mary debated with herself about whether or not to tell them about her relationship with Aiden, in the end she decided against it, for the moment. There would be a time when they would simply have to accept it, but now wasn't that time.

"Is there a way for me to meet the rest of the group?" Mary said.

"I'm hosting a meeting in two weeks at my country house, I was hoping you would want to participate." Robbie smiled.

"Of course." She accepted.

"Good. I'll e-mail you with directions and more details after I get back to the city." He looked genuinely pleased.

"Will you need anything else?" Maureen asked.

"I don't think so, thank you Maureen. Everything was delicious." Having company had been interesting, but she would be glad when she had her house back again.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary sat cross-legged on the wide bed and stared at the pages arrayed before her while she rubbed her temples. Each page held a series of markings that was roughly circular. Some were larger, some smaller, all were described by Aiden as elementary thoughtforms. There was no uniformity to the markings, except for the fact that each one had a central symbol. Aiden had explained to her that the entire circle represented a complete thought in his language, and that the symbol in the center was the subject of that thought. Beyond that, nothing he said made any sense. She had thought that after a few days of study and practice the symbols would start to make a rudimentary kind of sense, but that hadn't happened. She was beginning to doubt that it ever would.

"You look frustrated, child." Mary jumped, she hadn't heard Aiden come in. He sat behind her and she leaned back against his chest.

"I'm hopeless." She turned and kissed him softly. His hands roamed from her back to her hips and back again. His arms tightened around her waist and Mary arched against him.

"You are not hopeless. Ours is a difficult language to learn, especially when one cannot pronounce many of the sounds." He stroked her hair. 

"You read English so easily." She sensed tension in his body, so she reached around and firmly kneaded his lower back. She had discovered that that was the place where his tension usually settled. Aiden closed his eyes and within moments a soft, pleasure-growl emanated from him.

"English is a very simple language for my kind, so are most human languages that we have encountered." He groaned as she worked at a knot in his thick muscle. "Your symbols are far more limited than ours and the amount of possible valid combinations are more limited as well."

"Cyril managed to learn." She moved and let him stretch out on his stomach. Mary started to work more intensely on his back. It took a great deal more force than she would have used on another human being.

"He managed to learn a few rudimentary phrases, but all the nuances that complete a thought were lost on him." He drew a deep breath and let it out slowly, allowing her to press more firmly. "That feels so good."

"What did you do to yourself? You're almost never so sore." She worked gently but firmly.

"I was hunting an hour or so before dawn and my quarry twisted while it was in my grasp. Being that it was late and I was hungry, I twisted too. Perhaps I am no longer as young as I believe myself to be." He chuckled softly, so did Mary.

"I'll be on the lookout for a nice, sturdy walking stick for you." Mary kissed the back of his neck.

"You are a kind mate." He grasped her wrist firmly and before Mary knew what was happening she was on her back under him. "You are also rather appealing, even if you are only semi-literate." He was grinning a bit when he said it.

"Semi-literate huh?" She squirmed away from him and suppressed a smile. "Well I won't bore you further, I know how precious time is to you." 

"That is not to say that I believe you to be untalented." He followed her, his lips brushing hers softly. Mary sighed heavily and turned her head away, looking perfectly bored.

"I'm afraid that I have far too much studying to do." She turned and fixed her eyes on his. "Besides, my teacher is a real slavedriver." Aiden's hairless eyebrows rose.

"Is he indeed." He knelt behind her on the bed, one knee on either side of her slim body, his arms around her. "Then I suppose you would have to follow his directives in all matters, in order to please him." One large hand found and fondled her breast. Mary moaned in spite of herself.

"Well, maybe. I mean, that would depend on what he wanted. I'm not always such a good student." She gasped when his thumb and forefinger closed on the firm bud of her nipple. She squirmed against him, her eyes closed. Mary could feel the firm bulge of his erection against her back as she moved.

"I think this particular exercise will not be as unpleasant for you as the reading lesson was." He nipped at her earlobe and Mary moved so that she pressed more firmly against him, rubbing his shaft between them. He growled softly, his hands reaching under her t-shirt. Mary pulled her arms out of it, then turned to face him, her mouth finding his. 

Aiden wasted no time in sliding his hands into Mary's sweat pants, pushing them and her panties down. She opened his belt quickly, allowing both of her hands to reach inside his loincloth. She stroked him with both hands, covering his whole length and breadth as only her hands could. His mouth became more aggressive and Mary yielded for a few delicious moments. 

The talons on his thumbs traced the erect peaks of her nipples while his tail sneaked between her legs, teasing her already slick opening. Reluctantly, she moved away from him to finish undressing. Aiden tossed away the loincloth and leaned back to watch Mary, a little smile on his lips. She was getting used to him looking at her now, but the hungry way that his eyes swept over her body still sent chills down her spine and brought a blush to her cheeks.




Heart of Stone Ch. 08



She followed him onto the bed trailing kisses up over his thighs, her tongue teasing his skin as she approached his hard shaft. Aiden lifted his hips and groaned. Mary knew he wanted more, but she was content to tease for a little while longer. Her fingernails followed the path of her lips and tongue, while her lips tickled the underside of his shaft. Aiden was taking short, sharp breaths and clutching at the blankets and Mary could tell that he was resisting the urge to beg her to take him in her mouth. She teased the flared head with her tongue and then let her lips close over it. Mary was certain that his deep groan made the walls shake. She could sense his need, so she left teasing behind and began to suck firmly while she applied similar pressure to the rest of his shaft with her hands. After a very short time, Aiden gripped her shoulder tightly, pulling her body up over his.

Mary straddled him and pressed down against the broad tip. She groaned and trembled as her opening stretched around him. She relaxed and slid down as far as her body would allow, then stayed there for what seemed like forever, her eyes closed, hands braced against his muscular torso, his hands on her hips. When his hands gripped her hips more tightly Mary opened her eyes and started to move, her gaze holding his. Aiden moaned, obviously getting lost in the sensation, his eyes locked on hers. 

His growls were becoming more intense and she was getting close to her own release. Mary's growing need for satisfaction drove her as much as her desire to please him. Without warning Aiden sat up and held her still. Mary's inner muscles were tense around his shaft and she gripped his biceps tightly. Aiden turned her on her back and pressed her knees back, opening her completely. She whimpered when he pushed deeper inside her. Aiden leaned forward and kissed her, giving her time to relax before before beginning to take her roughly. Mary arched her back and gave in to the sensations of being completely taken over by him. The intensity of her release overwhelmed her, she barely noticed Aiden's roar or the sensation of more of his weight resting on her.

For a few blissful minutes it was as if the rest of the world didn't exist. Mary's body was limp, she barely felt Aiden slide his arms under her. When he began to move her though, Mary's head began to spin, she whimpered and pushed weakly against his chest, wanting the strange sense of motion to stop, but still not able to express it words.

"Be still, child." His voice was soothing. The world stopped moving when she rested against his chest, his softening shaft still inside her. Mary sighed, a shiver of complete relaxation running through her body. She listened to Aiden's heartbeat and let herself drift off for a few minutes.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary shifted slightly and groaned when the ache struck her. She moved so that she lay next to Aiden, her head pillowed on his shoulder. Her hips throbbed from straddling him for so long and the place between them throbbed from the intensity of his passion, though she had come to regard the latter as a pleasant kind of ache.

"I was beginning to wonder if you would sleep the entire night away." He spoke softly, Mary could hear the small smile in his voice. She blushed and arched against him.

"Well, you could've woke me." Mary sat up while he made himself more comfortable, then snuggled against him again. "Was I too heavy?" He chuckled and shook his head.

"To me, you weigh next to nothing." He brushed stray hairs from her face with one wicked-looking talon. Mary hardly noticed the contrast of such dangerous instruments performing such delicate actions. "You do surprise me though." The way he grinned made Mary blush deeply.

"In a good way I hope." She laughed softly and arched against him when the tips of his talons traced lightly over her back an bottom.

"Of course." He chuckled. "I thought that was fairly obvious though."

"It was probably obvious to Colin and Maureen too." She laughed and let her fingers roam over his chest. 

"Gargoyles are reticent by nature, but there are moments when I find silence to be impossible." He smiled and his arm tightened around her. Mary thought she detected a hint of blush, but with the tone of his skin she couldn't be sure. They lay in a comfortable silence for a few minutes.

"I'm going to tell them about us. The rest of the group I mean." Mary said finally. Aiden didn't respond at first, when she looked up at him his brows were drawn together.

"Are you certain that is wise? From the short time I spent with the Barnaby and the other one I am not at all certain that all of the rest of that group would accept our relationship as easily as Maureen and Colin have." His arm tightened around her protectively.

"I've been wondering if their acceptance in the beginning really matters." Her arm tightened around him for a moment.

"Mary, to cut yourself off from others is never wise." His voice was calm, but she could tell that he was worried.

"I don't intend to cut myself off from anyone, but I think that you might be underestimating them, and me." He sat up a little straighter.

"You?" He sounded surprised.

"I'm not blind to what's going on here Aiden, they want something that I have." 

"Meaning what?" He was looking at her curiously.

"You've said it yourself, I'm a part of whatever was set in motion all those centuries ago. Much as that still bothers me it does mean that they need me, at least for awhile. I'm counting on that 'while' being long enough that people will get used to the idea that I'm very happy with you, even if that is unconventional." She smiled and hoped she looked braver than she felt. 

"Perhaps if you find this document, they will be more accepting." Aiden stroked her cheek.

"I think I have a better chance of finding Jimmy Hoffa in the wine cellar." Mary laughed softly.

"Who?" He looked at her curiously. Mary searched for a quick explanation and found that she didn't have one.

"He was labor leader in America. I think it was 1974 or 75 when he disappeared, there are all kinds of theories as to what happened and who did it, but no one really knows because his body has never been found. Anyway, it seems like if this document was in a place where we could find it, Ambrose or someone would have found it before now. I certainly don't think I'm going to find it in the next few days. I need something to drink, would you like something?" Mary got up and pulled a robe around herself. 

"Water, but I will go with you to get it." Aiden didn't bother dressing. The house was empty and the Marches would call before if they came back. Mary had to force herself not to stare at him, and that meant that she took great and obvious care NOT to look. Aiden smiled but said nothing. "If you were so certain that the document would not be found, why did you wish to learn my language?" 

"I've been curious since you told me about it, but until the other day I never thought it was a written language, and it made me curious to learn more." Mary filled a large glass with orange juice for herself. "Want to try some?" She offered Aiden the glass. He accepted it carefully and took a tentative sip. He grimaced and handed it back to her quickly. 

"You drink this willingly?" He asked, his nose still wrinkled. Mary filled his large cup with cold water and handed it to him. Aiden swallowed half of it in one gulp and she refilled it again.

"It doesn't taste so bad to me." She laughed. Aiden sat and pulled her into his lap. The chair he was using and several others were gifts from Colin. Dragging the few chairs that fit Aiden from one room to another was difficult and seemed to limit where he felt comfortable lingering. The gardener was the only one who grasped how simple the solution could be. "Even if I never find that document I figure learning your language, even in a limited way, is a good thing." Mary relaxed back against him and sipped her juice.

"All very rational, but I get the feeling that you do not believe a word of it." Mary looked over her shoulder and found that he was absolutely serious. She sighed.

"Alright, so I think we will find it eventually. It's not logical and I don't know why I feel that way. We've been through every inch of this place, Ambrose doesn't mention it, at least not in any of the journals we've found so far. Unless we start tearing up the floorboards I don't know where else to look, I just know it's here somewhere." She sighed and finished her juice. "I know it doesn't make a whole lot of sense."

"Logic is overrated, child. I trust your sense of this more than anyone else's idea of rationality." He kissed the side of her neck lightly and sighed. "I enjoy having you as my secret."

Mary turned to face him and his hand slid under her robe to cover her hip.

"I just don't see how we can keep it a secret forever. If I get pregnant -"

"When you get pregnant." He corrected.

"WHEN I get pregnant I'm not going to be able to hide it and I'll need people around me for support. At least this group already knows you exist and are awake." She looked into his eyes. "Besides, I love you. I would tell the world if I could." She kissed him, sucking lightly on his lower lip. His arms tightened around her, her legs tightened around him when he stood. Mary was surprised when she felt the solid wood table under her bottom. His lips nibbled at hers while his fingers untied the sash of her robe. Mary gasped softly, her hands closed over his and she pulled back a bit.

"We can't do this here." She whispered.

"Why not?" He moved her hands aside and finished untying the loose knot.

"Because-" Mary squirmed and tried to come up with a reason. His lips found hers softly again, Mary sighed. "Because this is the kitchen." She said finally.

"I am aware of that." He pulled her hips a little closer to the edge of the table. "Why does that matter?" He pushed the robe off of her shoulders. Mary let her hands wander over his chest, exploring the planes of his muscles. The part of her that wanted to protest was being quickly overwhelmed.

"Maureen would be mortified." Her lips parted when his tongue pressed against her lips. She stroked it with hers and moaned. His hands moved over her thighs, her breathing quickened when he opened her knees wide.

"You intend to tell her?" He looked down at her, a little smile on his lips.

"Well, no but-." Mary was keenly aware of the bright light over the table. She found she couldn't quite meet his gaze.

"Then she will not be upset." He lifted her chin. Her heart was pounding in her ears. His eyes held hers and Mary felt goosebumps raise on her skin. She looked away and started to tremble. The tips of his fingers moved up over her arms, the backs of his knuckles trailed down over her hard nipples, then down over her lower belly and then against her slightly open slit. Mary leaned against him, her eyes closed, her hips moving slightly, his knuckle rubbing against the nub of her pleasure. His mouth found hers again, she could feel his warm desire there, but the intense hunger that was present earlier was gone. Her hands caressed him softly, exploring his stomach and his hard shaft. His knuckle pushed gently against her opening and Mary whimpered sharply. "You still ache?" His voice was soft next to her ear, his knuckle still gently rubbing.

"Yes." Mary whispered, little tremors chased each other through her body. His lips caressed her neck and shoulder gently. His soft touches led her into relaxation, her eyes closed, her breath coming faster.

"Lie back." His lips brushed her ear as he spoke.

"Turn off the light." She didn't move.

"Why?" His free arm tightened around her.

"Please." Her voice was barely audible. The tip of his tail replaced his knuckle and Mary groaned, her hips moved slowly, her lips wandered over the places on his chest and shoulder that were within reach. All of her resistance was melting away. The tip of his tail rubbing against the nub hidden in her folds was bringing her closer and closer to the edge. She moved with it, wanting more.

"Lie back." He whispered again, then punctuated his request with a practiced flutter of his tail. Mary moaned and started to lay back, her need overwhelming her shyness. 

His lips found one firm nipple, Mary's hands found the back of his head and held it to her breast. His tongue teased her nipple until Mary's moaning gasps filled the room. When she was trembling with need, his head moved to the other breast. Being as attentive to the right nipple as he had to the left. His hands moved down her body, barely touching her skin until they reached her legs. His lips moved down her body slowly while he pressed her knees back and held them open.

"Yes, please." She whimpered with need, pressing against his curling horns with both hands. Aiden continued his slow journey down her body, stopping to tease her navel, then lower, the tip of his tongue moving softly over her lower tummy. Mary groaned in frustration. Aiden chuckled and then drew his tongue slowly along her open, wet slit. Mary felt as though she was going to crawl out of her skin when it fluttered against her delicate inner lips. Aiden seemed to sense her need, he pressed his tongue further inside her and began to tease her swollen nub.

Mary felt as if she couldn't draw a full breath. Her little whimpering cries filled the room and began to come faster as she got closer. His lips closed over that most sensitive bundle of nerve endings and sucked softly. Mary couldn't stand any more, her back arched and she screamed, her hands clawing for something to hold onto as the world spun around her. Aiden held her still and licked softly at her trickling juices. The lightest touch of his tongue renewed the throbbing pleasure and plunged her below the surface of it again. Her body trembled when his mouth left her completely.

He kissed her navel, then each nipple, then her lips, Mary wrapped her arms around his neck. He pressed the broad head of his swollen member against her slick opening, Mary wrapped her legs around him, freeing his hands to roam over her body. She found that the ache from before had been replaced by a need to feel him inside her again, she pulled him forward. 

He moved carefully, Mary was able to taste herself as his lips descended and teased hers. She moved under him, meeting the quickening movements of his hips, letting the sensations of him filling her push her toward the brink of pleasure again. Her mouth became hungrier, his hips moved faster and with a greater intensity until he pressed inside her as deeply as her body would allow. She felt him spasm inside her, he threw his head back and cried out while Mary fell into her own pleasure again, with whimpers this time.

Mary wasn't sure how long she lay there. She groaned when he pulled away but was unable to speak. Slowly, she turned onto her side and drew her knees up. From somewhere that seemed far away Mary heard water running, then she felt Aiden move her onto her back again. She moaned when he opened her legs again, this time though he pressed a warm, wet towel over her opening. Mary relaxed and let him clean her, her earlier embarrassment forgotten. By the time he took the cloth away, Mary had recovered enough to need to be close to him again. She reached out for him and without a word Aiden picked her up. 

"The towel." She said, picking up her robe.

"It is in the basket, with the others that need to be washed." He smiled down at her. Mary snuggled against his chest and sighed softly. She found she wasn't concerned with where he was taking her, she just closed her eyes and trusted him.



Heart of Stone Ch. 09



9. Arriving Apart To Be Together

It had all seemed like a simple idea when she accepted the invitation, she and Aiden would go to this gathering to meet the rest of the group. Getting there turned into more of a process than Mary could have anticipated. To begin with, Aiden wasn't able to travel by car. Mary trusted him to carry her, but bringing luggage would have been out of the question. There was also the issue of what to do once they got there. Aiden wasn't a pet that one could sneak in through the back door when no one was looking, but Robbie had told her how excited the rest of the group would be to meet him. 

After a flurry of e-mails and phone calls it was worked out that all but a few of Robbie's servants would be sent away until the following Monday, those who remained could be trusted to keep silent. Mary would drive, bringing her things and a chair for Aiden in case Robbie didn't have one. He would fly, trying to avoid populated areas and roads as much as he could. He disliked the plan, and he disliked the idea that he may not be able to enter her bedroom whenever he wanted. Mary wasn't thrilled with that possibility herself, but both of them realized that it was the best they could do for the time being.

Mary arrived at Pemberley Court at a little after nine on Thursday evening. A fountain bubbled in the center of the circular drive and most of the first floor rooms were illuminated, giving the large house a warm and welcoming appearance, even in the darkness. It seemed to be larger than Beeson Hall, but that could have been because she was nervous. While she was gathering her courage one of the tall doors opened and Robbie stepped out onto the lighted landing.

"Mary?" He asked, she couldn't see his expression, but it sounded like he was smiling.

"Yes, sorry. I was just getting my things." She fumbled with the keys and started to walk to the back of the car.

"Don't bother, Bennett will take care of it." A nervous-looking servant appeared from the house and took her car keys. Mary murmured a thank you and walked up the wide steps. Robbie kissed her cheek and ushered her into the house. "I see you found us alright."

"Sort of, I drove past your access road twice before I found the turn." She looked around the entry hall and noted the unusual blend of antique and modern design.

"I should have made my map clearer." Bennett came in carrying her bag, Mary couldn't help but notice the anxiety on his face before he disappeared outside again.

"It wasn't your map, it was the fact that I'm not used to finding my way around after dark." Mary waited until Bennett disappeared through a set of double doors on the right side of the foyer. "Is there a reason he looks so nervous?" She asked, her eyebrows drawn together.

"Aiden arrived twenty minutes ago, I prepared them as best I could but-" He smiled slightly and even without hearing the rest of his statement, Mary understood the rest.

"But meeting Aiden for the first time can be overwhelming." She laughed softly. "Believe me, I understand."

"Come through into the drawing room." He led Mary toward a set of double doors on the left side of the foyer. The room was larger than her library, but it wasn't out of line with the scale of the house. It was more traditionally decorated than the foyer in golds and brown leather, but the art that hung on the walls was more modern than one might have expected. Aiden stood when they entered, his heavy brows were drawn together.

"I was worried that something happened to you." She could see that he was fighting the urge to touch her in some way. Mary touched his hand lightly as she sat down.

"I just missed the turnoff." She smiled reassuringly.

"Would you prefer tea, coffee or something a bit stronger?" Robbie asked.

"Coffee would be wonderful, thank you." She noticed that Aiden had already emptied at least one large cup of tea.

"How do you take it?" He asked, filling a delicate china cup.

"Two sugars." She accepted the cup from him. "Thank you." He sat across from her and sipped what Mary assumed was a scotch. Even though his posture was relaxed Mary could see that he was still a little nervous around Aiden. Before anyone could speak Bennett entered quietly and spoke into Robbie's ear.

"Put it in one of the twins' sitting room, and take Mary's things to the bedroom Mr. Aiden isn't occupying." He said after a moment. 

"The twin's sitting room?" She asked when Bennett left.

"I thought the two of you would be most comfortable if you were close together. The twin's rooms connect to a sitting room between them. It makes a nice private suite. No one's occupied it since they died though." He explained and then turned to Aiden. "If you'd like to rest in the bed, I've made certain that you will be comfortable."

"That is very kind of you." He smiled and finished the last of his tea.

"I don't mean to pry, but who were the twins?" Mary sipped the hot coffee and felt herself starting to relax.

"You're not prying, they're one of those family legends. Matthew and Mark were my grandfather's older brothers, and the only set of twins ever born into my family. From that alone I tend to think some of the odd stories about them were exaggerated, but the fact is that they never married because they couldn't bear to be separated from each other. They worked in the same office and lived in those rooms and from what my grandfather said they were very content." He finished the last of his drink and set the glass aside.

"You never met them?" Mary found herself wondering if they died in those rooms. She wasn't sure that she wanted the answer to that question.

"They died of some sort of illness when I was two or three years old. I'm told that I did know them, but I don't have any memories of them. There's a portrait in their sitting room, so I have an idea of what they looked like. I DO remember sneaking into their rooms whenever I wanted to let my imagination run wild. You know how children are, they see ghosts and monsters in every closet and love every minute of it." He laughed softly. "If you're not comfortable though, this house has so many rooms -"

"No." Mary said quickly. "I'm sure we'll be very comfortable. I keep hoping I'll run across some family history at Beeson Hall, but there's nothing recent, at least not that I've found yet." She said, turning the discussion away from the twins.

At a little after 11:30 Mary found that her repertoire of small talk was as exhausted as her body was. She excused and herself and Aiden followed. Robbie called for the housekeeper, Mrs. Bennett. She learned that the young man who had brought in her things was her son, and that her husband also worked in the house. It was clear that Aiden made her nervous, but she was covering it reasonably well. He allowed Mary to walk closest to the older woman.

The twin's rooms were at the extreme east end of large house. There was only one door to the suite itself, and it opened into a comfortable, traditionally designed sitting room lined with books. Mrs. Bennett informed her that the door could be bolted from the inside and handed Mary a key, telling her that it was the only one to these rooms. The housekeeper gave them a brief tour and Mary was pleased to see there was a balcony that could be accessed from both bedrooms and the sitting room. It was too dark to see what the view was though.

"Mr. Barnaby told me that Mr. Aiden would see to his own meals, but will you be coming down for breakfast, Miss? If you prefer I can have a tray sent up." Mrs. Bennett said.

"I'll be joining Mr. Barnaby, if he doesn't mind." Mary said.

"If you would join him around nine in the conservatory, I'm certain that he'll be pleased to see you. Is there anything else you - either of you -- need?" She sounded uncertain when she addressed Aiden.

"You have made us quite comfortable, thank you." Aiden spoke softly, and with a reassuring smile.

"If you change your mind, there are working bellpulls in all three main rooms, the ones in the bathrooms were disconnected years ago though." Mrs. Bennett looked more relaxed now.

"You've been very kind, Mrs. Bennett. Goodnight." Mary smiled and she was certain Aiden was smiling too, even though he was standing behind her.

"Goodnight." She nodded at both of them and left the room. When the door closed, Mary turned the lock and stepped into Aiden's waiting arms. He lifted her off of her feet, and she wrapped her legs around his broad waist.

"I was so worried about you, child." His voice rumbled next to her ear. Mary tightened her arms and legs around him. She barely noticed when he sat on the bed.

"It was so hard not to touch you when I first got here." She nuzzled the side of his neck as she spoke. "The whole time I was driving I was worried that you had been seen, or shot at."

"The route I took was not direct, but it was private. You must remember that I am able to see much farther and much more clearly in the dark than you are." He kissed the side of her head softly. Mary smiled against his shoulder.

"That's why I was late. I couldn't see the entrance to the estate." She looked into his green eyes. "I didn't mean to make you worry though." Mary felt his low chuckle as much as she heard it.

"I know that, dear one." He tilted her chin up. "You look exhausted and the distance I covered was far greater than what I am accustomed to now, we should rest." He kissed her softly.

"I think that's a good idea." She moved away until she was kneeling next to him on the bed. "But I was thinking that maybe I should sleep in the other room, just until I can tell at least Robbie the truth." Aiden looked shocked and hurt.

"I have held you while you slept since before we were mated." Aiden's confusion showed in his face and in the tone of his voice.

"I know, but yesterday Maureen was telling me that servants notice everything. They expect us to use separate rooms and if my bed isn't slept in that's going to start gossip." His heavy brows were still drawn together, but he was considering her words. "I think hearing it that way would make it seem dirty somehow."

The silence seemed to grow with every breath she took. He pulled her close again.

"You will sleep in here -"

"Aiden-" She moved to get up but he held her still.

"Until dawn. I will take you to your bed then." Mary relaxed against him. He lifted her chin. "And you will remember that a female does not question EVERY decision her mate makes." The twitch at the corner of his mouth was barely perceptible, but it told her that Aiden was fighting a smile.

"Maybe I'll never be good that part of being your mate." She smiled a little. 

"I think my life would become rather boring if you were." He chuckled and kissed her lightly. 

"I need a shower before we settle down for the night." She kissed him again and moved out of his arms. On the brief tour of the suite Mrs. Bennett had given them, Mary was pleased to see that each bedroom had it's own bathroom. That fact seemed a little surprising, considering the last time it was occupied on a regular basis, but she certainly wasn't going to complain. While both were a great deal smaller than the space she was used to at home, it was completely private.

She stood under the hot spray and allowed all the tension that had collected in her shoulders and back to drain away. She stood under the water for longer than usual, enjoying the feeling of deep relaxation. Finally, she turned the water off, toweled off and dressed for bed.

"Is that new?" Aiden asked when she entered the other bedroom again. It took Mary a moment to realize he was talking about the light pink silk nightgown she was wearing. 

"Yes and no." She turned out the light, got into bed and snuggled up against him. While she was showering he had pulled the top sheet and blankets off the bed, Mary let him arrange them around her body, as he always did at home. "I bought it a few months ago, but it seems like whenever I decide to wear it we make love before I can change. After it just seems silly to get dressed again." He chuckled softly.

"Very wise, child." He kissed the top of her head. "I prefer the feeling of your skin, anyway." 

Mary closed her eyes and tried not to think about the strange, dark room that surrounded her. She arched a little closer to Aiden.

"You are not comfortable?" He asked.

"That's not it. I guess Robbie's comment about these rooms being spooky got to me. Have you ever been here before? Before you were frozen I mean." She looked up and could just about make out the contours of his face in the darkness.

"My kind tend to be territorial, so visiting was not always a simple or casual matter." Mary was genuinely curious. The fact that his voice was soothing was a wonderful bonus. 

"But you mentioned alliances." Her fingers moved lightly against his chest.

"Yes, some were formed through matings, others were simply negotiated out of mutual desire or need. Even so, there were rules." His hand wandered over her back and down to her hip, taking great care not to snag the delicate silk with his talons. Usually a request to travel through the territory of another clan had to be made in advance."

"Even for someone who was mated to see his or her family?" Mary was a little surprised, but too relaxed to register physical shock.

"Matings were a bit different. A female always went to live with her mate's clan, she could return with her mate, and children if there were any. For any other member of her mate's clan to travel with them carried other requirements, depending on the particular clans involved. Some alliances were stronger than others, and some clans were more inclined toward building peaceable ties." Mary felt herself starting to drift.

"That sounds complicated." She murmured.

"No more complex than your treaties." Even though Mary was close to sleep, she heard the small smile in his voice. In recent months Aiden had taken a keen interest in modern government and politics and he had formed some very strong opinions. As much as she enjoyed talking to him about it, her mind was too far gone to even begin the conversation. The last thing she remembered was feeling his lips against the top of her head.

*~*~*~*~*~*

After Aiden moved her into the other bed, Mary slept poorly. Instead of having a warm place that smelled like Aiden to curl up in, the whole bed was cold and smelled only of clean sheets. She tossed and turned until six-thirty and then gave up. She dressed in a pair of jeans, a light sweater and pulled her hair back in barrette. 

It was her practice to find Aiden when she woke up to at least say good morning, even if he couldn't respond. Even though it was possible that he had decided to stay inside, Mary doubted it. Soon after they were first mated she asked why he still went outside to rest during the day. He looked at her strangely and said that he had rested outside since his birth. Mary wasn't certain what to say to that, so she hadn't brought up the topic again. Mary found him crouching menacingly in the corner of the balcony nearest the door to her room. She slipped her arms around one large bicep and rested her cheek against the cool stone.

"Morning Aiden." She murmured and looked out over the gardens and deep green countryside beyond. Robbie had said the house was isolated. She hadn't realized just HOW isolated until this moment. There was nothing else to be seen, at least from this angle. Even when she walked to the railing she could see nothing but the forested hills of the estate. She sat on Aiden's thigh and rested her back against his chest. "I wish you could see this in the daylight. There are a thousand shades of green and the sky is this golden color it gets when the sun hasn't been up for very long." Mary relaxed there for a few minutes, just enjoying the closeness in silence. "I'm getting kind of cold, so I'm going to go back in now, I'll miss you today." She kissed Aiden's shoulder and went back inside.

Mary glanced around the sitting room, her eyes scanning the titles of the books on the shelves. She was surprised to see some of the same titles she had in the basement library mixed in with fiction and ancient history texts. As curious as Mary was about the twins, it was too early to really process what she was looking at. If she were at home she would have gone down to the kitchen for coffee, but she didn't think wandering through the house was entirely polite. She pulled the bellpull and hoped she wasn't waking someone. 

While she waited, Mary took a closer look at the portrait of the twins that hung over the fireplace. She had noticed it last night of course, but then it was just background to her tired mind, like everything else in the room. Now she stood in front of the portrait and really LOOKED at the two men it depicted. At the time it was painted it looked like they were in their thirties. The pose was unusual compared to the other portraits she had seen in Beeson Hall and in other parts of this house. The twins sat next to each other behind a table, and appeared to have just been interrupted while studying some papers that were spread out in front of them. 

The twins themselves were unremarkable men, except that they appeared to be perfect mirror images of each other. One had a small mole on his right cheek, the other had one on the left. The opposite corners of their mouths curled up in a small smile. It was the background that drew her though, there was something familiar about it. Mary brought a chair over and was just about to step up to get a closer look when there was a knock at the door. She moved the chair back to its place quickly and opened the door to a young maid wearing a utilitarian black skirt and blouse.

"You needed something, Miss?" The young woman looked over her Mary's shoulder with a kind of nervous curiosity.

"Oh," Mary was a little surprised to see an unfamiliar face. "I don't think we met last night, I'm Mary."

"Mrs. Bennett told me you and a Mr. Aiden were in here. I'm Rose." 

"I'm glad to meet you. If it's not too much trouble, could I get some coffee?" Mary still had a hard time asking for someone to wait on her. Rose just smiled.

"Of course, Miss. Will the -- gentleman - want some too?" She asked, her eyes still darting curiously around the room.

"No, Aiden rests during the day."

"Will you want anything to eat?" Mary had to fight the urge to look over her shoulder.

"No, I'll be eating with Mr. Barnaby. Is there something wrong in there?" Mary asked, unable to stand the curiosity anymore.

"No Miss." Rose looked embarrassed. "I'll be right back with your coffee."

"Thank you." Mary closed the door and went back to the painting again. The background was unusually detailed and that fact alone sparked her curiosity. Mary moved the chair and stepped up onto it. She used the fireplace mantle to steady herself as she looked more closely.

From her new vantage point she could tell that the artist had been talented. The fine emotion lines that made each face unique reached out from the corners of the men's eyes and gave each one his own character. One seemed more accustomed to smiling in joy, the other's face bore even a small smile with difficulty. The happy twin's forehead was smooth, the serious twin's forehead was beginning to show the signs of constant worry. The subtle differences in their hands were apparent too, and the unusual way they were posed drew her eye again to the papers spread out on the table in front of them. 

The artist had given the pages the look of age and while most of them appeared to be blank there was one that was strangely but subtly marked. She squinted and realized the brushstrokes were different then those in the rest of the painting. Mary turned so that she could look at the page from an angle. The way the light played over the painted out section made it clear that whoever had made the erasure had been careful, but the roughly circular shape of the underlying image remained. She couldn't help but wonder what had been there and who wanted to hide it.




Heart of Stone Ch. 09



Mary looked at the rest of the picture carefully. Standing as close as she was, she was able to see more detail than she could before. She could just about make out a stone wall and portrait of someone who wasn't either of the twins. There was something familiar about that smaller image, but where she had seen it before stayed just out of her reach. A creaking door startled her back to reality. 

She got down off the chair, expecting to see Rose with her coffee. Instead she saw the door to her bedroom open slowly, then stop. She was certain it had been securely shut. Her feet felt rooted to the floor, but Mary forced herself to walk across the room. She reached out to close the door, but before she could touch the knob, it slammed hard enough to rattle the pictures on the walls. Mary stepped back, her heart racing. The light rap on the hall door startled her. She opened it only a crack at first, until she saw that the person on the other side was Rose. She opened the door wide.

"Are you alright, Miss?" Rose set the tray on the coffee table and looked curiously at Mary. "You look rather pale."

"It's nothing. I'm just not used to this house." Mary managed a smile.

"Parts of this house take more getting used to than others. How do you take it?" Rose pulled hot coffee into the cup. Mary told her, barely thinking about the coffee anymore.

"What do you mean?" She tried to will her heart to stop pounding.

"These grand old houses are like grand old people. They have long memories and not all of those memories are pleasant." Rose shrugged. "Will you need anything else, Miss?"

"No." She said, resisting the urge to ask for more details, she would only make herself more nervous. "Thank you."

Mary wrapped up in a blanket and took her coffee out onto the balcony. At least she felt safe when she was close to Aiden.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary found her way to the sunny, plant-filled conservatory at a little before nine to find Robbie reading the paper.

"Morning." She smiled and sat across from him.

"Good morning. Did you sleep well?" He smiled and set the paper aside.

"Yes." She said. It wasn't exactly a lie. When she was with Aiden she had slept just fine. "Those rooms are beautiful."

"They're one of those wonderful little nooks you find in a house like this." Bennett and Rose brought in breakfast and set it on the sideboard. After they withdrew, Mary and Robbie served themselves. "Unfortunately they're never used." 

She sat down and spread jam on her toast while she thought about how to frame the question in her mind.

"The portrait-"

"Do you ride?" He asked, cutting her off mid-question.

"Ride? As in horses?" Mary was a little surprised.

"You'll love it." He smiled and picked up a cordless phone that was laying next to him on the table.

"Well I don't know-"

"Jack, my guest will be joining me this morning." He was silent, presumably listening to whoever was on the other end of the line. "No she hasn't, so I was thinking of Briar Rose." He listened again.

"I really don't think-" Mary said, taking advantage of the silence.

"About forty-five minutes I should think." He said into the phone again, smiling at Mary. "Thank you." He hung up.

"All arranged." He smiled. "The estate is so large it's best experienced on horseback."

"You're making the assumption that I'll actually be able to stay on." Mary said, nibbling at her toast. Robbie laughed.

"I promise, you'll be fine. Though you'll be very hungry if you just have toast." Mary smiled a little.

"Alright, but if I hate it you have to bring me back." She smiled and dug into the scrambled eggs.

"Agreed, but somehow I doubt it will come to that." He laughed.

"How many horses do you have?" Mary asked, suddenly curious about this other side of him.

"Six at the moment, soon to be seven." The look of pride on his face was unmistakable. 

"Congratulations." Mary said.

"Thank you, though I can't take full responsibility." He laughed again, and Mary couldn't help but smile. "Horses are a hobby of mine, this will be the first birth here in a long time though."

"Is it something you've always enjoyed?" She asked.

"No, in fact I had never even been on a horse until I was in my thirties. A young woman I was seeing enjoyed riding and she convinced me to come along with her one time. After that I was hooked, on the riding that is. It didn't take me long to find out the woman was mind-numbingly dull. I bought my first horse a few months later." He answered.

"Do you show them?" Mary was genuinely curious.

"Good God no, that would be entirely too much work." He chuckled. "No the animals I own wouldn't be called top-notch by anyone, but they provide me with a great deal of joy."

After breakfast Robbie and Mary stopped by the kitchen to get a plastic bag of apple slices, and then out through the back door of the house. The path they walked down was not one of the manicured garden walkways, but it was well-traveled and wildflowers had sprung up in bunches along the edges of it and to Mary that was more pleasant than manicured gardens. As they walked, he explained the the stables had stood empty for years while the family's finances had been in decline, and only one of the structures had been fully restored and updated. He lead her through a gate and into a neat, cobbled stable yard. 

"Morning Mr. B." An older man with short-cropped gray hair and a full gray beard called as he pushed the wide, double doors open. "They'll be out in a bit, one of Briar Rose's shoes was loose."

"There's no hurry." Robbie said. "How's Sandy doing this morning?"

"She fine, though I think she's looking forward to having the little one. You can just tell she's at the point of uncomfortable." He looked at a group of four horses walking over to the corral fence, a rotund buff-colored mare walked slowly at the back of the group. Robbie walked over to the fence with his bag of apples and the older man turned to Mary. "You must be Miss Mary Beeson, I'm Jack Dawkins." He wiped his hand on his handkerchief and offered it to her.

"It's nice to meet you." She smiled and shook his hand.

"If you don't mind me saying so, you're looking a bit nervous." He said.

"I guess I'm still a little unsure of all this." Mary smiled at him and then glanced over at Robbie. He petted and scratched the two brown horses, the buff colored one and a smallish gray one.

"Mr. B.'s a good teacher and Briar Rose is as gentle as a lamb. I think you'll take to it Miss." He smiled reassuringly. The clatter of hooves on cobblestones drew everyone's attention. "There we are now. That shoe fixed Danny?"

A young, sandy-haired man lead the two horses out of the dim building and nodded at Jack. One was sleek and black, the other seemed to be a pinkish shade that surprised Mary. He tied each horse to a rail loosely and walked back into the barn. Jack turned back to Mary.

"You'll have to excuse our Danny, he's a charm with the horses, but he's a bit shy around people. Come on, meet Briar Rose."

"She's pink." Mary said, as she approached carefully. 

"Strawberry roan to be technical." Jack smiled broadly, took something out of his pocket and held it out for the horse. "A mixture of chestnut and gray hairs." Mary stroked the mare's arching neck and then her velvety nose when the animal nuzzled her.

"Well you're smiling, I'll take that as a positive sign." Robbie smiled and handed her a piece of apple. "Hold your hand flat and she'll take it." Mary followed his instructions and the horse took it delicately, she laughed softly.

"Need anything else, Mr. B?" Jack asked.

"I think we'll be alright, thank you." Robbie handed Mary another apple slice. She fed it to the horse in the same way. "Ready?" He asked.

"As I'll ever be." She answered.

"Good. Stand facing the horse and give me your left leg."

"Why?" Mary looked at him curiously. Robbie laughed.

"So I can help you up." He said.

"Oh." Mary laughed a little and looked at the stirrup. She stepped up onto air with her right foot, put her left foot in the stirrup and swung her leg over. "Is this right?" She asked. Robbie was looking at her with a mixture of surprise and awe.

"Do you do that often?" He asked.

"Do what?" She asked, gripping the pommel of the saddle tightly when Briar Rose shifted her weight.

"Most of us need specific words for something as intricate as your step up." He smiled and untied the loose knot in the reins that tethered the horse to the rail. He handed them to Mary and then mounted his own horse in a more usual way. "Hold the reins like this." He demonstrated and Mary did her best to copy his actions.

"Why do you need words? It was in one of Ambrose's books that all that is needed is desire and ability to focus." 

"Just let her follow me until we get out of the yard." Mary could hardly refuse, she gripped the saddle and tried to get used to the motion of the horse. "Was that Gryston's book?"

"Yes I think so." Mary tried not to look down. For some reason she felt like she was a great distance off the ground.

"We all read him, few of us can practice his techniques." He led her out onto one of the park-like lawns of the estate. "Speaking of techniques, let me teach you a few so you feel more comfortable."

For awhile, Mary simply followed his instructions and found that her comfort level was growing with each step the horse took. She learned how to guide Briar Rose, stop her, encourage her to speed up and slow down and how to move her body to make the ride more comfortable. After about an hour, Robbie directed her toward the edge of the forest. As they drew closer, Mary could see the entrance to a wide path.

"No desire to turn back?" He asked with a half smile. Mary laughed.

"None."

"Good." They began to pass other, narrower paths as they rode and Robbie explained that most of the estate was crisscrossed with them. Some were disused and had become overgrown, others were too low and narrow to ride on safely. All of them fed back into the main path eventually. She tried to bring up the painting again several times but each time Robbie changed the subject before she could finish the question. Around noon, Robbie started down one of the side paths and Mary was surprised when they emerged in a spacious clearing. A stone cottage sat in the center.

"Does someone live here?" She asked. 

"No. It used to be a hunting lodge, but then it fell into disrepair like everything else around here." He dismounted and she followed suit, stepping down onto air again. He led the horses into the small corral next to the house, and taught her to take off their saddles and bridles and let them graze. "I don't hunt, but it makes a nice retreat."

The inside was as quaint as the outside, with most of the space devoted to a common area that combined a kitchen and living room, both done in a rustic style. 

"Hope you don't mind a light lunch." He washed his hands and then took cheese from the fridge and set crusty rolls and apples on the table.

"Sounds good to me, but that was a long ride -"

"Through that door." He smiled.

"Thanks." Mary emerged a few minutes later to find that he had set the table, put the food on it and poured wine. "This looks delicious."

"Sit down." Mary took a roll and an apple. For a few minutes they ate in silence. 

"Do you have lunch here often?" She asked.

"Often enough to keep a few of the basics on hand, but not nearly as often as I'd like. Even on week ends it seems like there's always something else competing for my time. By the way, I think I've found the perfect dinner companion for you."

"I didn't know you were looking." Mary was surprised and anxious.

"Well I didn't take out ads in The Times, but there is one other fairly new member of our little group. At our last gathering he spent most of the time sitting alone in a corner." He took a bite of crisp apple. "I thought the two of you might be more comfortable if you had each other to talk to." 

"So you're the social director as well as keeper of the gargoyle's history." Mary laughed softly and sipped her wine. 

"Not officially," He laughed. "Though since I play host I feel some sense of responsibility for the comfort of my guests."

"I know I'm not a social butterfly, but I don't think I want to be set up with someone who hides on corners." Mary said, only half joking. She was still trying to think of the right way to introduce the topic of Aiden, and rejecting every option as awkward.

"Don't think of it as a set-up, just think of him as a new acquaintance called David Milbourne. He recently took his father's place in the group. He's a bit older than you are, but the difference shouldn't be large enough to cause too many difficulties. He's single, no bad habits that I've heard of. His abilities aren't on the same level yours are-"

"No." Mary said firmly, her eyes fixed on his.

"Well, I know that's not the most romantic consideration, but usually when a couple are too mismatched-" Robbie looked concerned.

"That's not what I mean." Mary paused for a moment to sip her wine and figure out the best way to tell him. Before she could even start though, Robbie was speaking again.

"Good God, I do need to move into the twenty-first century. It's too late to find a young lady at this point-" He paused when he saw the look on Mary's face. "That's not it either."

"No. I'm already committed to someone." Mary nibbled on the bread.

"And here I was worried that you were spending all your time alone in that big house." Robbie laughed. "Why didn't you bring him along?"

"I did." Mary replied, her eyes on his. Robbie was confused, his eyebrows drew together.

"You only brought Aiden." Mary was silent, her eyes steady. Robbie shook his head and spoke gently. "Mary, there are rules, very strict rules that have been in place as long as anyone can remember. He can't return your feelings."

"He knows the rules, and he explained them to me. None of that mattered to how either of us felt though." Mary's heart was pounding. She gripped the edge of the chair tightly. The silence stretched on for what seemed like forever.

"How long have you been-" He paused, searching for the right word. "Together?"

"Mated." Mary said. His eyes widened for a minute as he processed the meaning of what she was saying. "Close to a year and a half." The silence stretched on again, but Mary felt relieved that everything was out in the open. 

"Sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants." He smiled and Mary felt the tension leave her body. "Not everyone will agree with me and if you tell the others you can expect some harsh criticism. I'd recommend keeping silent for now."

"So, I have to ask, what makes you so accepting?" Mary took a bit more of the cheese.

"When I was a little younger than you I fell in love with a young woman from the village called Elaine. She wasn't of the same social class of course and she had already had a child out of wedlock. None of that mattered to me of course, we were compatible in all the ways that really mattered so I thought that my parents would come around eventually. That didn't happen and I allowed them to convince me that my life would be more fulfilled if I chose someone more appropriate." His eyes were on his glass of wine, but they seemed to be looking into the past. His index finger moved lightly around the rim of the glass.

"Meaning someone of your own class?" Mary asked, appalled at the thought.

"Or at least someone who was wealthy. My parents were good people, but they were short-sighted about certain things. I saw how miserable my sister was in her 'appropriate' marriage. So, I looked for someone in that narrow group who fulfilled me in but same way that Elaine did, but I've never found anyone else I felt that connection with and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't regret my choice."

"But now, your parents are both gone." Mary said, her heart aching.

"And Elaine is married." He smiled sadly. "The time has passed anyway. If you're happy - truly happy - with Aiden, you need to be together, no matter what convention says."



Heart of Stone Ch. 10



10. Getting the Message

Mary was sitting alone on the drawing room sofa when Aiden entered. She set her embroidery aside and stood on her toes to kiss him. 

"Where is our host this evening?" He asked. His hands stroked over her back and shoulders.

"On the phone with a client." Mary said. She bit back a little giggle when he picked her up. Her legs wrapped easily around his waist, her arms around his neck. His kisses became more passionate and Mary's body responded instantly. She pressed against him and felt his growing need. Mary knew that in a few more minutes there would be no resisting him. She broke the kiss and squirmed a little. "He won't be on the line that long." She laughed.

"He knows you are my mate, he will understand that there are times when a male requires the comfort of his mate." His mouth found hers again. As soon as they returned to the house, Mary had told him about the the horseback riding and her revelation. She also made sure he knew about Robbie's reaction. Even though everything was out in the open now, and his kisses were exciting her as they always did, the thought of disappearing for awhile and then coming back made Mary blush. She pulled away from him again.

"We can't. It would be rude." She squirmed a little. He growled softly next to her ear. "Besides, we have all night." He sighed.

"I am beginning to dislike visiting." He kissed her softly and set her on her feet again. Mary kissed the spot over his heart and sat down again. Her head was still spinning and she began searching for excuses to go to bed early. He sat next to her in his chair and she held his hand, resting her head against his muscular forearm.

"Aiden," She started. "Have you noticed anything odd about our rooms?"

"Odd?" He looked at her curiously. "In what way, child?"

"I don't know, there's something about the painting, and this morning when I was looking at it the door to my room opened and slammed shut again. It sounds silly to say it out loud." She looked away from him.

"Old houses have drafts, dear one." He said gently.

"I know that. Beeson Hall has drafty rooms too, but I haven't ever felt uncomfortable being in any of them." She sighed softly. 

"You were nervous last night as you were falling asleep, were you able to rest after I took you to the other bed?"

"Not really. I guess my imagination was just overactive at that hour." Mary wasn't entirely convinced of that, but she wasn't certain how to put her feelings into words either.

"So sorry." Robbie said as he came back into the room. Mary sat up a little straighter, but held onto Aiden's hand. "I should have known better than to give him this number. You rested well, and found a satisfactory meal, Aiden?"

"Yes, thank you." He smiled. 

"Good. Would you like to join us for dinner tomorrow evening? I'm certain I can make arrangements for your food preferences and I know everyone will be curious to meet you." He poured himself a drink at the sideboard. "Would anyone else like one?"

"No thanks." Mary said.

"No," Aiden answered. "And thank you for the kind invitation, but watching my kind eat can be disturbing to the squeamish. I would like to join you after the meal." Aiden answered.

"As you like." Robbie sat down with his drink in hand. "Something's been playing on my mind since we got back. Have you ever tried simply WILLING Esme back to the waking world?"

"I've tried, but it hasn't worked." Mary said, remembering her frustration of the several times she tried. "It was like pushing against the side of mountain."

"I should have known that you tried already." Robbie sighed. "We've tried too, but the rest of us need the words. We've all tried different combinations of focal words, different times of day. Just about anything you can vary we've varied it and it's just as you said, immovable resistance."

"Maybe that's what all those notes were." Mary mused.

"Notes?" Robbie looked curious.

"Yes, when I first moved in to Beeson Hall I started exploring and found all these scraps of paper with words written out in different combinations. Some of the notes mentioned the need to find the right words."

"That makes sense." Robbie said after thinking a moment. "Ambrose became a man obsessed. I always thought it was one of the reasons he withdrew from life."

"We're not going to be attempting anything like that tomorrow night, are we? I mean, I don't have anything he wrote with me." Mary didn't feel like she had enough of a grip on how her ability worked on its own, much less how to add it to others. She began to feel uncertain about the whole thing.

"No, not this time. I look at this as a meeting to introduce you and Aiden and to discuss how to go forward. Have any of the others contacted you?" He sipped some of the amber liquid in the cut glass tumbler.

"I got "looking forward to meeting you" messages from Veronica Trumbull, Ron Norman, Stuart Dinsmore and Alex Innes." Mary answered.

"Veronica is an old dear. She's ninety at least, but you won't find anyone more together. The other three are half convinced that you're some kind of fraud. That's Andy's influence I'm afraid." Robbie looked slightly embarrassed.

"But he's met Aiden." Mary was confused.

"He doesn't doubt that Aiden is who he claims to be." Robbie looked uncomfortable. "He claims to doubt your abilities. He's clearly jealous, unfortunately the others don't have the perspective on the situation that I do. I'm certain that once they meet you, he'll have less influence. The rest will probably reserve judgment until they meet you."

"This is going to be a difficult evening, isn't it?" Mary's heart was beating faster. Aiden gripped her hand softly.

"It may be thorny in places." Robbie admitted. "I think that most of them are open-minded enough to look at you for who you are. The few who aren't will bow to pressure from the others eventually."

"You sound very sure of that." Mary wasn't certain of anything anymore. It was all she could do not to go upstairs and pack to leave.

"I am very sure of that." He smiled. "If I thought this was going to be too difficult I would have brought them to you a few at a time. The last thing I want to do is scare you away."

"So how does one of these evenings usually go anyway?" She asked. He had told her it was formal attire because that was tradition. Beyond that he had been silent. 

"The first part of the evening is just like any other social occasion. People arrive around six for cocktails. Dinner starts at seven-thirty. Usually that wraps up at around nine and those who are actually part of the group meet in the library, their spouses, significant others and the like spend the rest of the evening in here. Usually there are no more than two or three of those." He sipped his drink. "I had thought that if Aiden would wait in the library he could be introduced to the group as a whole. After business is finished the others could meet him too, if you want to meet them." He said to Aiden.

"They will keep silent?" Aiden asked. The way his thumb moved over her palm let Mary know that he was concerned too.

"Of course. Even though they aren't a part of the group themselves they've all been around the concept for ten years or more." He looked concerned. "This won't be so terrible, Mary."

"I don't think I can do this." Mary sat up, her feet on the floor. If it weren't for Aiden's hand over hers she would have run.

"Mary-" Robbie started.

"No!" She was starting to tremble. "Look, I don't know how to talk to a group of people like that. They're going to take one look at me and think I really am a fraud. I'm starting to believe that myself."

"Child, you have made no claim-" Aiden started.

"That doesn't seem to be the message that's being conveyed." She looked from Aiden to Robbie, then back to Aiden. "If I do this, I'll ruin it."

"There's nothing to ruin." Robbie sat next to her on the other side his arm on the back of the sofa. As upset as she was, she noticed how closely Aiden watched the other man. "The first part of the evening is light conversation. The second part will be focused around Aiden. You won't be expected to lead a formal meeting, the others elected me to that role. Your abilities will be firmly established once they see Aiden and discussion will take care of itself."

Mary looked down her her knees, her heart was still racing. 

"I don't know." She said softly. "I thought I was ready for this when we came here. Now I just feel overwhelmed."

"You are tired, Child." Aiden said softly. Robbie glanced up at the clock on the mantle.

"It's nearly eleven." He grasped her other hand. "Things will look better after you've slept."

"Maybe you're both right." Mary sighed and Robbie released her hand. She put her forgotten embroidery back in the bag and stood up.

"I know we are." Robbie kissed her cheek softly. "I'll let Mrs. Bennett know you'll be taking breakfast in your room tomorrow."

"I don't want to put anyone to any trouble." Mary said.

"It's no trouble. We'll have lunch together and if you feel up to it maybe we'll have a short ride."

"Alright." She nodded and forced a little smile.

"Good. Sleep well then." He stepped aside. "Aiden, you know you can use any room in the house you like, at any hour."

"Thank you, but I think I will be most comfortable being close to Mary." Mary heard the small smile in his voice.

"Of course." Robbie smiled and sat down in his chair again.

Aiden walked up the stairs behind Mary, but when the reached the second floor he moved in front of her. He wrapped one arm around her waist and lifted her. Mary held onto him with her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist.

"Aiden, you don't have to-" 

"Nonsense. I have thought of nothing except having you in my arms since I felt you resting against me this morning."

"You felt that?" Even though she knew that he could hear her when he was resting, Mary never considered that he might be able to feel her.

"It is not the same sensation as when I hold you like this, but there is a warmth, and faint sense of pressure where your body contacts mine. It may be because of the spell, but I do not recall anyone having the need to touch me or any of the others while we rested before that. It may have always been so." He kissed the side of her neck. Mary held on a little tighter with her arms and legs.

"Robbie's probably sorry he invited me." She murmured against his shoulder.

"I doubt that, dear one." She heard him struggling with the doorknob. After Maureen and Colin met Aiden he had started moving freely around the house more freely, and everyone noticed that the size of his hands and the length of his talons made manipulating the doorknobs frustrating for him. She replaced them with lever-style handles on all the doors except the guest rooms, reasoning that he wouldn't have occasion to use any of them.

"Let me." She reached down and he shifted his hold so that she felt safe and supported. The sitting room was lit only by a small light above the portrait. Mary turned the lock and put her head down on his shoulder again, closing her eyes to the image and the uncomfortable darkness. He had left the door to his room open he took her in there and closed it.

"If you were not here, who would open doors for me?" He set Mary on her feet, a little smile on his full lips. Mary was glad the bright moonlight was streaming into through the large windows. She found one of the lamps in a far corner and turned it on. She heard him lay down and she joined him on the bed, curling up against his side.

"You'd have girls lining up to do whatever you wanted." She kissed him lightly. Aiden chuckled softly.

"I believe your affection for me has clouded your vision, child." He chuckled and pulled her close. Mary looked up at him, appraisingly.

"Well, you might have to polish your horns." She smirked a little. Aiden laughed and kissed her, his lips lingering on her hers.

"You are a treasure, Mary." Mary relaxed, her fingers stroked over his defined muscles.

"I think I'd like to be a buried treasure." She sighed.

"You worry too much, dearest." He spoke softly.

"If they don't like me, or if they think I'm not really one of them, maybe they won't help you wake the others." He lifted her chin so that he could look into her eyes.

"You have a strong ally in Robert, and I have no doubt that you will find others as well. Besides, if you are utterly rejected you and I will continue to search for the answer alone." One large thumb caressed the side of her breast. Mary felt her nipple begin to react.

"I'm going to hope you're right." She kissed him softly, her fingertips tracing over is chest. "Because if I keep thinking about it," She sucked on his lower lip softly, Aiden moaned softly. "I won't get any sleep at all."

Aiden slid his hand up under her blouse to cup one breast.

"What makes you think you will sleep tonight?" He smiled slightly. Her hand drifted down over his thigh.

"Well, I figure eventually, you'll get tired." Mary smirked and took his hand out from under her blouse, she sat up, put her back to him and pulled her top off. She stretched and reached behind herself to unhook her bra, glancing over her shoulder slightly as she took the straps off of her shoulders. When she felt him shift his weight Mary stood up and pushed her jeans down over her hips as she moved towards the lamp, eventually kicking them aside. She turned off the light, crossed her arms over her breasts and turned to walk back to the bed, only to find Aiden standing only inches behind her. Mary jumped and let out a little yelp.

"How did you-?"

"You forget that I am a hunter." The moonlight behind him left his face completely dark, but Mary could imagine the twinkle in his eye. "Besides, I thought you might need some help." Before Mary could speak Aiden hooked his long thumbs into the side seams of her panties and tore through the cotton.

"Much better." She could hear the smile in his voice. She stepped away from the shredded fabric when he advanced toward her. He reached out, his knuckles brushing over her hard nipples as she turned slowly and backed toward the bed. Mary's eyes were on his and even in the low light she could see the hungry desire there. 

Her heart was pounding when she felt the bed behind her legs. She sat and moved back from the edge. Aiden followed kneeling over her with his wings spread and arching over them both, making her feel tiny in comparison. Before Mary could consider her feelings Aiden's mouth was on hers. When they were both comfortably on the bed his hands started to move over her body, his talons trailing goosebumps and pleasant shivers over her skin. 

Mary moaned and let her fingers trace down over his chest, to his waist and, when she didn't encounter any clothing, lower. She found his hard shaft with both hands, he gasped when she started to stroke him slowly. He closed his eyes and his wings fluttered, his hips rocking against Mary's hands for a few minutes. The low growl let her know that he was getting lost in the sensation. She smiled and applied more pressure to his throbbing length. 

When Aiden moved to lie back she followed him, kneeling between his legs and placing feather-light teasing kisses along his hard length, then lower. Her tongue traced up along the underside and one taloned hand gripped her shoulder tightly, his rumbling groan seemed to send vibrations through her whole body. She licked the broad tip of his manhood firmly and quickly before taking the tip fully into her mouth. His tail stroked over her inner thighs and then started to press against her lower lips. Mary opened her legs a little more, taking a little more of him into her mouth, her hands still stroking.

She rocked on her knees, moving between the thick shaft in her mouth and the tail that was teasing her wet core. Mary knew that he was getting close. The muscles in his thighs were tensing, and she could hear him gasping for breath. The talon on his thumb dug into the front of Mary's shoulder, she whimpered sharply, took her mouth away and started to move her body over his. Aiden grasped her right wrist and wrapped his arm around her waist, turning her onto her back quickly. The moonlight highlighted the almost frightening intensity of his face. Mary opened wrapped her legs lightly around his waist, her eyes on his.

Aiden paused, his soft kiss made Mary tremble. All the nervous tension melted away as his lips lingered, toying with hers. She tightened her legs around him, pressing her opening against the hard, broad head of his manhood. He entered her carefully as always, giving her body time to adjust and accept his size. His arms tightened around her and began to take her roughly. Mary whimpered and cried out as her body was shaken by every hard thrust. The intense sensation drove her over the edge quickly, her back arched, her muscles tense around him. Her pleasure cries filling the room.

He growled, talons digging into her skin, hard shaft pushing even harder into her body. Mary held on to him tightly, the pleasure thoroughly mixed with the familiar feeling of being battered. He gripped her shoulders tightly and pressed uncomfortably deep inside her. Mary's sharp whimper was lost in Aiden's roar. He relaxed slowly and Mary stroked his back with trembling hands as he withdrew from her. She shivered and let him move her limp body as she tried to catch her breath.

For awhile, Mary felt nothing except the residual pleasure and rapid rise and fall of his chest. Slowly, she came back into herself and realized he was moving her hair, looking at her shoulders. Mary moved slightly and was surprised to find a sticky wetness between her skin and Aiden's. She assumed he felt it too because he moved her body carefully and she heard him sniff at the air. He got up and turned the bedside light on. Mary was surprised to see an oozing puncture wound on the front of her shoulder and a long deep scratch on her side. The blood from both was smeared over the skin around the wounds.

"Some day I will learn how fragile you are." Aiden sighed and opened the balcony door.

"Where are you going?" Mary pulled the blanket over herself and noticed that she was still trembling a little.

"I need herbs, child." He managed a small smile.

"To make your ointment?" She moved to the other edge of the wide bed.

"Yes. I saw everything I need when I was hunting earlier, I will only be gone a few minutes." He came back in and kissed her forehead softly. They were long past apologies for minor injuries, but she knew he still felt guilty when he hurt her in the heat of passion.

"I brought some with me." Mary stood slowly using his arm for balance. He stopped her and pushed her gently back onto the bed.

"Tell me where it is." He closed the balcony door again.

"There's a small case on the chair just outside my bathroom. The jar and brush are in there in a plastic bag." Mary pulled the blanket around her breasts.

"I will be back in a moment." He left and Mary could hear him fumbling with the door to her room. She took some tissues from the bedside table and applied pressure to her oozing shoulder wound while she waited. Mary could hear Aiden crossing the sitting room, then she heard him stop. For a few minutes there was absolute silence, then she heard him moving again. He came into the room carrying a clean blanket, her robe and the case.

"I thought we might need these." He smiled and set the blanket and robe at the end of the bed and gave Mary the case before taking the ceramic bowl off the the antique washstand and disappeared into the bathroom. She got the jar of ointment, brush and a small plastic saucer out of her bag. She took some of the salve out of the jar and put it onto the dish. He re-emerged carrying the large bowl of warm water in one hand and a towel in the other. When Aiden sat next to her on the bed she could see that his skin was wet in places as well. He took a washcloth out of the bowl and started cleaning her side gently. "Why do you never tell me when I am hurting you?"




Heart of Stone Ch. 10



"I never know until it's over." Mary lay with her arm over her breasts. "You manage to keep my attention focused elsewhere." She smiled slightly and moved her hand so that he could wash the dried blood from her shoulder.

"One day I will learn the limits of your skin well enough that I will remember them in moments of passion." He kissed her softly and began to paint the stinging ointment onto the two wounds. Mary whimpered and squirmed as the ointment found it's way into her shoulder puncture. "How did you know to bring this?" He asked.

"I use it anytime I get a cut." A little whimper escaped her lips. He moved behind her and cradled her body while the ointment sat on the wounds. The stinging pain left her tense in spite of his ministrations. "It works better than anything I've found, so when I was packing I just grabbed the jar." The initial sting faded, and she relaxed against him. 

"I had no idea you found it so useful, my mother would be flattered." For a few minutes he just held her, his hands stroked softly over her bare skin. All too quickly he gently urged her to sit up. "I will return with clean water" 

"Don't bother. I need to take a shower anyway." Mary kissed him softly and took the case and her robe into the bathroom. If the shower were larger, she would have invited him to join her. As it was the space seemed small, even to her. Mary pinned up her hair and washed quickly, making certain to clean all the ointment from both wounds before stepping out and drying off. She covered the puncture on her shoulder with a bandage and walked back out into the bedroom. She had expected to find Aiden waiting for her, but instead she found the room empty and a fresh blanket on the bed.

"Aiden?" She called, tying the sash of the robe.

"In the sitting room." She found him standing in front of the painting. His heavy brows were drawn together in deep concentration.

"What's wrong?" She stood next to him and tried to figure out what part of the image he was focused on.

"Did you realize there was a thought-form on these pages?" He turned his head, studying the image from a different angle.

"There is?" Mary's eyes went to the painted out circular shape on the parchment. Her heart sped up and she looked nervously over her shoulder. She moved closer to Aiden, hiding in the shelter of his wings. "Can you read it?"

"I can read parts of it." He shifted his angle of view again. "Whoever covered it was anxious for it to blend in, so he was perhaps too sparing with the paint." Aiden fell silent again and Mary was certain she was going to crawl out of her skin waiting for his pronouncement.

"Well?" She urged finally.

"I need a moment." He said softly. "Incomplete thought-forms are difficult to interpret." Mary fell silent again, trying to give him the time that he needed. The mantle clock seemed to tick louder and slower with each passing second.

"It is about you." Aiden said finally. "Well, to be accurate I should say that it is a message to you."

"Me?" Mary stood on her tiptoes, trying to see for herself.

"It talks about the unschooled Beeson girl, that can only be you because you are the first Beeson daughter in at least a hundred years."

"What's the message?" Mary was shifting from foot to foot. The part of her that found the idea of a message to her being written before she was even born and put into a painting that she might never see was battling with the part of her that was intensely curious to know more.

"It is strange." Aiden said. "It talks about someone called the Watcher Within the Knowledge and that he keeps a secret that he will tell only to you." He stood up straighter again. "The rest has been too obscured. I cannot tell you where this person is or who he is, or even what this secret may be."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Robbie and Mary returned from riding at a little after four. Mrs. Bennett was wearing a simple black dress with a white lace collar and cuffs when she greeted them in the back hall. She let Robbie know that the others had started arriving. He led Mary up the back stairs, past Rose and several maids she hadn't met before. Each was wearing the same black dress that Mrs. Bennett wore, and they wore starched white aprons as well.

Mary bathed and dressed and tried to keep her nerves under control. Aiden spent a few minutes with her after she first got out of the shower, but then he left her to get ready while he hunted. Finally, she was standing in front of the full-length mirror, her hair piled in curls on top of her head, her make-up perfect, the black silk spaghetti strap dress hugging the curves of her upper body. The hem of the full skirt fluttered just below her knees. She looked critically at the simple gold cross around her neck and decided to leave it there. In all the time she took to find the right dress she never considered what jewelery she would wear. She pulled on the short, nearly opaque shrug, stepped into her heels and walked out into the sitting room. To her surprise Robbie was waiting there with Aiden.

"You are beautiful." Aiden said softly, his eyes sweeping over her from her head to her toes.

"He's right." Robbie said. She was surprised to see him wearing a tuxedo. "That dress is perfect for you."

"Thank you both." She felt a blush warm her cheeks. "I was worried it would be too much, or not enough."

"I thought you might still be a bit nervous, so I brought you something." He held up a platinum necklace in an Edwardian style. The pendant was made up of two wreaths, one smaller than the other, both were held together at the top by a diamond encrusted bow. The wreaths themselves were accented with diamonds and pearls with a single, larger diamond suspended in the center. The overall look of the pendant was lavish and fragile at the same time. "It was my mother's. She would wear it whenever she was especially nervous about a gathering. She always felt it brought her confidence. I was hoping you might wear it tonight, and whenever you feel the need."

Mary looked at the glittering pendant and shook her head slightly.

"I can't." She glanced at Aiden. "It's beautiful, but I couldn't take something like that from you."

"Why not? I have no children of my own, nor am I likely to at this stage of my life, and I've grown very fond of you over the past few weeks." He smiled, but Mary could tell that her refusal of his gift had hurt him.

"Because-" Mary searched for the right thing to say. She glanced at Aiden.

"Mary," Aiden moved closer to her, his hand rested lightly on her waist. "Females of my kind often mate outside of their clan of birth. When that happens they construct kinship ties within the new clan. You need those ties as well, child."

"I wouldn't be taking anything away from your family, would I?" Mary asked, walking forward. Robbie smiled.

"My mother was quite a collector. I have more than a few relatives who'll get far more than they deserve." He chuckled and unclasped the necklace and held it up. "May I?"

"Just a minute." She reached behind her neck and took off the gold cross and then turned around. Robbie clasped the chain around her neck. The pendant rested on her sternum so that the bottom of it barely grazed the hint of cleavage she was showing. She adjusted the collar of the shrug and turned to face the two men.

"What do you think?" She asked, a little smile on her lips.

"It suits you, dear one." Aiden stroked her cheek softly.

"He's right." Robbie smiled. "We should get down there, Veronica is probably waiting for us already."

"Are you sure you don't want to come now Aiden?" She asked, hesitating.

"Even if I wished to, I could not. My hunt earlier was not a success and you know I am less than pleasant when hunger overwhelms me." He kissed her forehead lightly. Mary nodded and walked out into the hall with Robbie and tried to keep her knees from shaking.

"How many of them stay here?" Mary walked a little more slowly than usual down the wide stairs.

"Everyone except for Andy and Nigel Pressman, they're the only two in the general area. Sometimes they stay as well, when we adjourn late." He opened the drawing room door and Mary stepped through to see a tiny, elderly woman accepting an equally tiny glass of sherry from Bennett. Her shockingly white hair was sharp contrast to the black dress she wore.

"You must be Mary Beeson." She set the glass aside and took Bennett's arm.

"Yes." Despite her best efforts, Mary's voice sounded uncertain.

"Robbie, what have you been telling this girl?" Even though she needed help to get up she moved across the floor lightly. Robbie took her hands and kissed her cheek lightly.

"Only good things, I assure you Veronica. She's just a bit nervous." Robbie answered. "How's Jackson doing these days?"

"Jackson is my husband." Veronica explained to Mary. "He's completely senile and enjoying every minute of it from what I can see. Almost makes me jealous sometimes. Enough about me, I'd like to know more about you." She took Mary's arm and led her to a quiet corner.

"Give me your hand." Veronica said. Mary held out her hand to the older woman. Mary felt Veronica's fragile skin and the vibration of power that pulsed just under it. The white eyebrows twitched and she smiled. "Now stop holding back." Mary did her best to relax.

"Sorry." She murmured.

"Robbie was right, you are quite something." A lively conversation could be heard just outside the door, Veronica smiled and let go of Mary's hand. "Be certain you let the others see it." 

As if on cue, the rest of the group entered the room en masse, making Mary think of a chattering murder of crows. As a group, they fell silent and stared at her.

"My goodness," Veronica said. "I wasn't aware I was so fetching this evening, though I do thank you all for the compliment."

"Forgive us." A man of about sixty stepped forward, his smile was genuinely warm and welcoming. He held out his hands and Mary offered hers. "I think we were all a bit surprised at how lovely you are. I'm Quentin Phillips."

"I'm pleased to meet you." Mary said, noticing the differences in the vibration she was feeling. It was a bit stronger, but there was something else too.

"The pleasure is all mine, I assure you. If our host doesn't mind I'll make the introductions." He offered his arm and Mary took it.

He introduced her to David Milbourne first. Her intended dinner companion seemed uncertain how to react and to Mary that didn't bode well. He looked from Andy to Robbie and then to Quentin, he was polite, but didn't warm to her. Mary wondered if he was even more nervous than she was. Most of the others were split in exactly the way she had imagined. Andy greeted her coldly, as did Stuart, Alex and Ron. Ramona Ramsay, Nigel Pressman, and Gordon Barnett greeted her with genuine warmth. Caroline Finch -- Mary learned that she had dropped the 'Griffon' from her name -- was a conundrum. She kept her distance from Mary, but only because Andy seemed to be glaring at her the entire time. 

Once the introductions were complete, Mary felt more at ease and she began to notice more about the others. The ones who were members of the group wore only black, except for the men's white shirts. Their companions and spouses wore at least a splash of bright color. The companions seemed to have their own little clique and apart from introductions they largely ignored Mary.

"It's all rather overwhelming your first time isn't it?" Ramona appeared at Mary's elbow. Ramona was one of those women whose age was impossible to tell from a casual glance. Her short, dark hair and fine features suggested that she was perhaps in her mid-thirties. The wisdom in her eyes gave a different impression.

"Is it that obvious?" Mary felt a blush heat her cheeks.

"Well, that depends on who you ask. My particular skill is reading and directing emotional energy, so, to me, yes." Mary laughed and so did Ramona.

"Robbie mentioned that everyone had different skills, but he didn't tell me what those skills were." Mary felt herself starting to relax. The rest of the group had fallen into polite "cocktail party" conversation and she no longer felt like she was the center of attention.

"Of course not, Robbie's a dear but there are times he would forget his head if it weren't always on his shoulders." Another easy laugh between the women. Mary could almost ignore the glances Andy's faction were casting her way from time to time. "Veronica and Caroline deal with all things temporal, past, present and even a bit of the future sometimes, though unfortunately for Caroline she has never been able to see her own future very well. Quentin and I are empaths. Alex and Ron exert some control over the elements, meaning earth, wind, fire and water. Neither of them is very powerful though so maybe I should say influence instead of control. Nigel and Gordon are herbalists."

"You mean as in healing herbs?" Mary asked.

"Not quite. Certain combinations can add and extra boost to the will of the practitioner." Ramona took a full glass from Rose's tray. 

"Seems as if I have more reading to do." Mary handed her empty glass to one of the maids she hadn't met.

"Don't worry about it, magic is like medicine. You could set out to read everything written on the subject and never get there because there's just too much material. Each family has built their library around their own particular skill." Ramona sipped her wine and continued. "Robbie and David are alchemists, though from what I understand the whole 'base metals into gold' idea was abandoned long ago. Stuart and Andy are lexicians, word snobs is what I call them. For them it's all about syllables and structures and the feeling behind it goes out the window."

"It seems I'm out of place." Mary glanced around as she said it, and caught Caroline looking at her as if she wanted to come over and say something.

"No, your family is kind of the glue that holds the whole enterprise together. Without your unifying power our abilities can't reach their full potential." Mary's eyes widened. "You'll learn how." Ramona assured her. Mary noticed that Caroline was making her way over to where she was standing. She almost made it before Andy's wife Jean intercepted her and shooed her back to the other side of the room.

"I don't mean to ask you to gossip, but what's going on there?" Mary asked.

"That's not gossip, it's common knowledge. You know about why Esme was for sale?" Ramona asked.

"The bad marriage?" Mary responded.

"Are you two discussing Caroline's marriage?" Veronica asked.

"Yes." Ramona answered. "Were we being that obvious?"

"No, but I did see her almost escape from that harpy Andy calls a wife. Then when I heard Mary mention marriage I put two and two together." She turned to Mary. "I thought you knew the story of that mess."

"I did, but I was wondering why she's so tied to Andy." Mary said.

"She's been staying with him since she moved out of Grantham House, unfortunately Andy thinks of anyone living under his roof as his personal property." Veronica ended with a derisive snort. It was becoming clear to Mary that this group might have been unified in a common purpose, but there were some deep divisions between them personally.

"The sad part is that Caroline believes she needs him." Ramona added.

"Dinner is served." Bennett announced. Everyone found their companions and made their way into the dining room.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dinner was easily the most lavish meal Mary could have imagined. Six courses that were artfully plated, perfectly prepared and in most cases composed of foods combined in ways she never would have expected. Her companion's conversation was less than sparkling, though he did manage to knock his wineglass over in her general direction and accuse her of clumsiness. Luckily it was nearly empty at the time. She spent most of the evening talking with Gordon about herbs, music and gardening. Mary was surprised to learn it was a hobby he had taken up only recently. Apparently the herbs he used had to be gathered from natural places at certain times of day or night and certain rituals had to be adhered to. 

Once the dessert plates had been taken away Bennett opened the dining room doors and announced that the meeting would begin in twenty minutes in the library, and that other guests were welcome to use the drawing room for as long as they liked. Bennett stopped Mary as she was leaving the dining room. Robbie waited with her until everyone else had filed out.

"Aiden is waiting in my office, I thought the two of you might like to enter together, and have a few minutes alone in the bargain." His smile was reassuring.

"Quiet sounds like a little bit of heaven right now." Mary said.

"I can tell you they're all impressed, even the ones who are trying not to let it show." Robbie said.

"Maybe, but that was the easy part. All I had to do was be polite." Mary laughed quietly, hoping to dispel some of her nervousness. "Which door is it?"

"Follow Bennett. I keep it locked during these gatherings. I'll knock to let you know we're all gathered. See you soon." He touched her arm lightly and walked down the hall. Mary turned to Bennett and he let her into Robbie's office. She had seen it briefly on the tour he had given her of the house. It was the same unusual but pleasing blend of the very modern and the antique that she had seen in all the rooms he spent a great deal of time in. This one leaned more toward the modern. Aiden rose as soon as she entered.

"That door," Bennett pointed to a door on the right side of the room. "leads to the library. At the moment, it's bolted from this side. Mr. Barnaby asked that I lock the outer door behind myself, if you're comfortable with that, Miss."

"Yes, that's fine. Thank you Bennett." Mary waited for the butler to close the door, then walked too meet Aiden as he crossed the room to her. His arms and wings wrapped around her and Mary hid against his chest for several long, quiet minutes.

"Come, let me hold you for awhile." He sat down again and let Mary arrange her dress so that she could settle against his chest. Just being close to him made her feel better. He stroked her carefully, almost hesitantly, because of the silk dress.

"Were you able to eat?" She asked, her voice only barely above a whisper.

"Yes." He kissed the top of her head. Mary shivered pleasantly and pressed closer against him. "What are the others like?"

Mary told him about her conversations with the others and what she thought of them. Mostly though, they were both silent.

"Are you nervous?" Mary asked.

"I would not say nervous. I dislike feeling like I am on display, like I am nothing more than a new beast in a menagerie, but I see no other way to do this." 

"No one will think of you as an animal." Mary looked up into his eyes.

"I am not human." He reminded her gently.

"I know that, but you're not an animal either." Mary responded.

"In your world there is nothing between the two, at least not anymore. One is either human or one is less than human." His arms tightened around her. Mary wanted to tell him that the others wouldn't see him as less than human, but she knew that wasn't entirely true. There were some in the group who would never think of him that way and there were others who might never think of him as anything else.

"I never saw you as less than human." She said finally. "I can't be the only one in the world who thinks that way." She felt him smile against her head.

"No, you never did." He held her gaze for a long moment. A knock at the door shattered that moment. He kissed her lightly. "We should go."

"I can tell Robbie you've changed your mind, if you want." She stood again.

"No, child. This must be faced, and it is better faced now than postponed." He rose and followed her.




Heart of Stone Ch. 10



*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

When they entered the library, chairs and sofas were arranged in a circle, with Aiden's large chair and the one next to it still empty. Mrs. Bennett and Rose were serving coffee and tea to those who wanted it, Bennett served brandy. Once everyone who wanted something to drink had it, the servants left quietly. 

The reactions to Aiden's appearance were as Mary might have expected. Some were shocked, some awed, some momentarily frightened, and some took great care not to react at all. Robbie began to make introductions, but Veronica interrupted him. 

"I think we should all introduce ourselves." She said.

"Good idea." Gordon said. There was a general murmur of agreement.

"Alright." Robbie agreed. "Do you think thirty minutes will be enough time?"

"I think so." Veronica said. "Though, since this is all about meeting Aiden, if it takes a little longer that shouldn't matter, should it?" Robbie looked thoughtful.

"I had hoped to open the floor for discussion about going forward." He answered. Mary could see why he was so good at leading the group. He gave them the impression that they governed themselves.

"Probably a good idea." Veronica admitted. "Half an hour it is." Robbie rose and offered Veronica his arm. She leaned heavily on him to stand, then crossed the room in her graceful way. Aiden stood uncertainly and let the tiny woman take one of his large hands in both of hers. Mary touched his arm and retreated to where Robbie was sitting. This was probably the best thing that could have happened, but something was making Mary uneasy. Robbie read it on her face.

"You could stand there with him, I'm certain no one would mind." He said.

"That would look like I'm his handler." Mary sat down and tried to quiet her mind. "Besides, he doesn't really need me for this."

"He's much more charming than I would have thought. The recorded history of the gargoyles that I've come across doesn't do their diplomatic side justice." Robbie admitted, the drone of conversation filled the room. She heard Quentin's easy laugh followed by Aiden's rumbling chuckle. "That's not what has you so nervous though."

"Honestly I don't know what it is." She watched Andy hold court with his faction at the opposite end of the room. They had all acknowledged Aiden's presence and then promptly moved away. "Maybe it's just my nerves."

"Maybe," Robbie smiled. "Though it's never a good idea to completely ignore intuition." 

"What hold does he have over them?" Mary wasn't looking at Andy, but it was clear who she meant.

"I wish I knew." Robbie said. "I suppose you'll find that sort in every crowd though. Did someone tell you about Caroline's predicament?"

"Ramona and Veronica." Mary noticed that Caroline looked like she wanted to spend more time talking to Aiden, but once again, one of Andy's minions interceded. "They didn't tell me what possessed her to go to him though."

"He went to her." Robbie responded.

"He doesn't seem the warm, caring type." Mary couldn't hide the surprise in her voice.

"He isn't, but he does have an impeccable sense of who's vulnerable and how he can turn that vulnerability to his advantage. He told Caroline what she needed to hear at the time she needed to hear it and now she feels like she owes him." Robbie explained.

"No one's tried to intervene?" Mary asked. Robbie smiled sadly.

"Sometimes it's best to wait in matters like this. When she's ready to reach out, she will find a great deal of support." He looked over the room. "It seems like everyone's been introduced."

Mary glanced over and was struck with the strangeness of the picture. Aiden towered, nearly naked and savage-looking as always in the middle of a circle of formally dressed men and women. Despite the physical differences they spoke and smiled and laughed together as if they were all old friends with no incongruity between them. 

"I know you're right, it's just hard to think of it that way sometimes. Would you excuse me?"

"Of course." Robbie smiled. Mary approached the small knot of people and hoped she looked confident.

"Where did you disappear to?" Nigel asked.

"Just having a chat with Robbie." Mary replied with a smile. "Besides, you've already met me."

"If I might have everyone's attention." Robbie started, a hush fell over the room. "Thank you. I trust that everyone has had a chance to meet Aiden." There was a general murmur of agreement. "Good. If everyone would take their seats we'll begin." 

People found their places, Mary made herself comfortable next to Aiden in a brown leather wing chair. She could tell from the way he watched her that he would rather have her closer, even though she agreed with him they would both have to wait a bit longer.

"Veronica was right when she said this meeting was about Aiden, so I propose we dispense with the usual formalities of reading the minutes and old business and move straight on to more pressing matters." 

"Agreed." Ramona said.

"Second." Andy said. There was no dissent so Robbie continued.

"You've all met Mary and Aiden and you all know that Mary is the one who awakened Aiden-" 

"I don't know that for certain." Stuart spoke up in his nasal voice.

"Neither do I." Alex said, one of his fat fingers traced around the rim of his brandy snifter. "All we know for certain is that she was present when he woke."

"And what? You think she just happened to be there at the right place at the right time?" Ramona asked.

"It's a logical conclusion." Alex said. "She's untrained. It's much more rational to think that Ambrose created a spell that worked on a time schedule."

"If Ambrose could wake Aiden, why would he hold off until so many years after his death?" Mary asked. "That doesn't make any sense."

"It certainly doesn't." Veronica said. The way she clanked her coffee cup against the saucer made it clear that she was angry. "We've worked for years to accomplish what Mary managed naturally-"

"You keep saying that, but where's your proof?" Andy asked. "She certainly hasn't been able to do it again, Esme is still frozen."

"Jealousy is an ugly thing." Gordon said. "We all know that Ambrose modified Aiden's enchantment as much as he could. If he had been able to release him, he would have done it."

"And even though Mary lacks formal training she still has more ability than Ambrose had." Quentin said. 

"More natural ability than anyone sitting in this room." Gordon added. Mary felt a blush heat her cheeks.

"Well then, she shouldn't have any problem proving it." Andy sipped his brandy as if he had just commented on the weather. 

"Agreed." Alex smiled coldly and turned to stare at Mary.

"Absolutely NOT!" Ramona said. "We've never required anyone to demonstrate anything."

"And we are not about to start now." Nigel punctuated his statement by striking the arm of the chair with his fist. From there it degenerated into a cacophonous argument. Mary was surprised both at the staunch and unbending support she had earned in such a short time, and the intense venom of the others, who had known her for an equally short time. When the others were occupied with their sniping Aiden stroked the back of Mary's hand softly. She looked over at him and tried to force a smile. When the insults began to get personal Robbie ended it.

"ENOUGH!" He shouted above the noise. Mary jumped, she had never heard Robbie raise his voice. "There will be no parlor tricks or vulgar displays. Whatever you claim to believe, Mary IS the one who awakened Aiden. If you want to debate further in your own time, feel free. Right now the topic that's before us is how to awaken the rest of the gargoyles."

"May I?" Mary said.

"Of course." Robbie smiled.

"Some of you are right when you say I'm untrained. I don't really know how you all work together or what my place is in that. I think before we attempt to wake the others I need the chance to practice." Mary could hear her heart pounding in her ears in the silence that followed. 

"A very wise idea." Quentin said finally.

"Absolutely." Robbie nodded. "Though I've seen how naturally this comes to you, I have absolute faith in your ability. Any thoughts on what order we should begin waking the others, Aiden?"

"I would like to say that order does not matter, but I think we must consider clan affiliations when making our plan. There are some clans that are enemies themselves but can interact with others as intermediaries. Until the situation is understood fully I think it is wise to let allies speak to allies. Because of that, Esme should be wakened first. My clan is tied to hers through many matings."

"So you propose we wake each one individually." Veronica said.

"Yes." Aiden said. "I know that I would have been very disoriented if I had awakened alone in a strange world."

"I'm certain that this will be shouted down," Andy started. "But has anyone considered how the world will react to its new residents?"

"Expand on that idea." Gordon said. All eyes were on Andy and he was enjoying every minute of it.

"Well, we human beings can't seem to get along with each other and you all want to add in a whole other race of creatures that look completely different and behave completely different from us and yet are sentient beings. That seems to me to be a recipe for disaster." The room was so silent Mary could clearly hear the ticking of the mantle clock.

"Much as I hate to admit this, he has a point." Ramona finally said. No one was able to look at Aiden. "A face of a different color or different set of beliefs sends some people over the edge."

"What would you have us do?" Veronica asked. 

"Leave them as they are. Centuries have passed, they're likely to have given up all hope anyway." He said. Mary thought she saw just the barest hint of a smile on his face.

"That is perhaps the coldest, cruelest thing I've ever heard anyone say." Quentin said. Mary was surprised to see all the color had drained from his face and he was gripping the arm of the chair so hard his knuckles were white.

"Nonetheless, the rest of you are powerless without me." Andy was as calm as ever.

"I don't know that." Mary said. "Isn't one of the main components in what we do belief?"

"It certainly is." Ramona said firmly. 

"My only concern is how Aiden and his kind will fit in to today's world." Andy said. "What will they do for work? Where will they live? I'm only trying to think of this reasonably."

"We can't just leave them like that." Caroline said softly.

"I'm sorry? I don't think I heard you correctly." Andy hissed.

"I said it's wrong." Caroline's voice was trembling, but she was standing her ground. "It was wrong to start with. We can't change the past, but we have the chance to fix it. We can't ignore that because it's just easier to leave things as they are."

"Truer words were never spoken." Gordon said. A murmur of agreement filtered through the room. From that moment on there was no more talk of leaving things as they were, but no agreement could be reached on the question of trying a new ritual or recreating an old one. At nearly three in the morning everyone was exhausted and conversation was beginning to run in circles. Robbie gave everyone a month to gather their thoughts on the matter and present them at another meeting. It was also decided that Mary's practice would take place then. Robbie adjourned the meeting and wished everyone a good night's rest.

Mary hurried over to Caroline before she could leave.

"Thank you, for what you said." The others were saying their goodnights and filing out, Mary returned those good wishes but remained where she was. She soon found herself alone with Aiden and Caroline.

"It was the right thing to do." Caroline smiled a little. "I don't suppose you know of someone who needs a maid or a companion for their ailing mother. I have the feeling I'm about to need a new situation."

"No, but there's plenty of room at Beeson Hall for friends." She smiled.

"You would do that? I was so nasty to you earlier." Caroline looked like she was overwhelmed.

"I tend to think that wasn't entirely your doing." Caroline smiled a little wider at that. Mary glanced around and saw the room and saw they were alone except for Aiden. He approached the two women slowly. "Before you say yes though, there's something you have to understand." Mary glanced over at Aiden.

"You mean your relationship with Aiden?" Caroline blushed a little when she said it and Mary knew she understood completely.

"Is it that obvious?" She thought she had been so restrained.

"All things temporal, as Ramona says." She smiled a little. "Veronica probably knows too, but I doubt any of the others do, unless you told them."

"It does not offend you?" Aiden laid one large hand on Mary's shoulder. "Or make you think less of Mary?"

"Why should it?" Caroline looked up at Aiden. "You're not exactly the boy next door, but if you and Mary love each other, what's wrong with that?"

"You have my protection, for as long as you need it." Aiden said. Mary could hear the smile in his voice.



Heart of Stone Ch. 11



11. Sharing

Mary wasn't going to leave until after Aiden woke and could leave as well. She came downstairs a little after eleven in the morning, expecting that the rest of the gathered company would be gone, except for Caroline. She was a bit surprised to hear voices coming from the drawing room.

"Honestly, I think I'm hopeless." Mary recognized Veronica as the speaker, even through the partially closed door. Mary entered, hoping she wasn't interrupting a private conversation. She found Veronica and Caroline sitting together on the sofa, and she was glad to see that last night's formal dress had been completely abandoned for comfortable slacks and casual cotton blouses. Veronica added a light sweater as well, but at least Mary didn't feel out of place in her jeans. "Good morning, Mary."

"Good morning, I hope I'm not interrupting." She walked a little further into the room. The furniture had been put back in place and Mary sat in one of the wing chairs. Someone had closed the sheer curtains to filter most of the noontime sun, but it left the room was bright and inviting.

"Of course not." Caroline assured her. 

"You don't knit, do you?" Veronica asked, holding up the rough beginning of a scarf.

"No, I don't." Mary answered.

"Neither do I." She set it aside. "At least not with any skill."

"Well if you just started-" Mary said.

"I started fifteen years ago." Veronica said with a derisive snort. "Caroline's the one with the real talent, she just tolerates me." Caroline's wooden needles had been making soft rapid clicking sounds since Mary entered the room. She seemed to be paying little attention to what her hands were doing, and yet whatever she was making was rapidly growing row by perfect row. 

"That must be your embroidery in the bag." Caroline stopped for a moment and handed it to her.

"Yes, I wondered why I couldn't find it upstairs." Mary accepted it and took out the piece she was working on.

"That's lovely!" Veronica moved closer to look at the large flower arrangement in a white basket.

"Thank you. I redecorated the breakfast room in that shade of yellow," Mary pointed out one of the sunny tones. "But I couldn't find any artwork I liked, so I thought I would make some."

"And here I sit, skill-less." Veronica sighed and picked up her knitting again and for a short time the room was silent.

"Veronica," Mary started. "Did you ever meet the twins?" Both sets of needles stopped clicking.

"You mean the Barnaby twins?" Veronica looked completely taken by surprise.

"I think their name was Barnaby. Matthew and Mark?"

"Yes, they were Barnabys, but how did you find out about them?" She stuck the needles into the ball of green yarn and dropped the lot into her bag.

"Aiden and I are staying in their suite-"

"Have you seen them?" Caroline asked, her eyes wide.

"It's only Matthew that still wanders around." Veronica corrected. "And he sticks to his room and the sitting room. I'm not sure why."

"I knew there was something strange about those rooms." Mary said. She set her stitching aside. "He had the room on the left?"

"You HAVE seen him!" Caroline moved forward in her seat.

"No, but I definitely heard something when I was looking more closely at the painting." Mary had moved to the edge of her chair. "And Aiden told me that that I was imagining things."

"Typical male, of any kind. If it doesn't fit into their narrow world it doesn't exist." Veronica said dismissively. "That painting has always given me chills though. You know where it was painted don't you?"

"No. I assume it was somewhere in this house though." Mary answered. "From what Robbie said this was the only place they lived."

"True enough, but they posed in Ambrose's library." The older woman said.

"I've seen pictures of Beeson Hall," Caroline said. "I don't remember the library looking like that."

"Not the one upstairs." Veronica explained. "The magic library at the Hall has been kept separately for, well, I assume since the difficulty. It was painted in the second library."

"Why there?" Mary was surprised, but now she recognized the painting in the background.

"I've no idea." Veronica said. "What I heard from Ambrose was that they insisted on it and even though they were never great friends of his he agreed for some reason. Knowing Ambrose as I did, it probably had something to do with what was written on the page in front of them."

"What was it?" Mary asked quickly.

"I don't know. I don't know if anyone knows how to read it anymore, except Aiden. You should ask him to translate it." Veronica sipped her tea and found it had gone cold. 

"May I?" Mary held out her hands.

"I can just call for Rose." Veronica handed her the cup with a curious expression.

"This is quicker." Mary held the cup and after a very short time steam was rising from it again. She handed it back to Veronica. She and Caroline were both trying not to look too impressed.

"Thank you. You're going to have to teach me to do that." The older woman sipped the hot liquid.

"Anytime you like." Mary smiled. "Back to the painting though, someone painted over the symbol. Aiden could make out very little of it, and apparently what he was able to see might not be accurate because so much of it is gone."

"Who would have done a thing like that?" Caroline asked.

"My uncle." Everyone turned to look at Robbie. No one had heard him enter and Mary wondered how long he had been standing there. Mrs. Bennett stood in the open door. "Forgive me ladies, I was coming in to see if you were staying to lunch as usual, Veronica. I couldn't help but overhear your conversation." Robbie sat down with them.

"Of course I'm staying, things are just getting interesting." She sipped the hot tea. "Are you trying to tell us that Crawford altered the painting?"

"No, it was my mother's brother, Steven." Robbie nodded to the housekeeper and she disappeared.

"Oh, he was a strange sort." Veronica said. "Always kept to himself like it was a crime to be social. Everyone who knew him, even casually, was surprised when he married." She explained to the others.

"The last time they stayed here, he and his family stayed in the twin's rooms. When they left, we found the painting that way. My mother thought their son had done it, but he was only five at the time and it was very carefully done. Between my father and I we had the painting cleaned, restored, just about everything we could think of to get the image back to the way it was, but the way it is now is the sum total of our efforts." Robbie explained. "Since then no one's wanted to stay in there, they claim it's haunted."

"Lunch is served." Bennett said from the doorway.

"I thought we would be most comfortable in the conservatory." Robbie offered Veronica his arm and Caroline and Mary followed them. The sunlight from the large, uncovered windows sparkled off the simple white china and plain glassware, adding a magical glitter to the ordinary objects. Mary waited until everyone was seated, and the meal had been served before she asked the question that had been on tip of her tongue.

"So what did the page say?" She asked.

"The page?" Robbie looked at her blankly for a moment. "OH! The page in the painting. No one knows. I don't think the twins knew either."

"How could they not know? They were so insistent on the place and all the rest of it." Mary asked.

"From what I was told it was a dream they kept having. I'm not sure if Matthew or Mark started to draw the symbols first, but eventually they each added to it and when it was finished they started making arrangements with Ambrose and then commissioned the artist." He took a bite of the salad and was silent for a few minutes. "My father used to speculate that it was about your family, since they wanted it painted at the Hall."

"It is." Mary said. "That was the only part that Aiden could clearly make out." Mary knew that it didn't make a whole lot of sense to hold back the rest of Aiden's translation, but in that moment she felt she had to figure out what it meant before she told anyone else. For a few minutes only the sound of cutlery on china could be heard and Mary used that time to turn over all that had just come to light. In a way, she was glad that she would likely be occupied for the rest of the afternoon. It gave her more time to process everything before she had to explain it to Aiden.

"So will you be hosting the next meeting, Mary?" Veronica asked, derailing Mary's train of thought and sending her off into another direction.

"To be honest, I hadn't thought about it. The Hall isn't really as put together as I would like it to be for so many guests." Mary couldn't look her in they eye as she said it. The thought of hosting so many people terrified her.

"Nonsense. No one's house is as put together as they would like it to be." Veronica laughed softly.

"You could make it an informal gathering." Robbie suggested. "I love having you here, but I know arranging for Aiden to travel isn't easy, or safe at this point."

"I can't deny that." Mary said.

"I could help, if you wanted." Caroline offered.

"I guess I am hosting the next one then." Mary smiled and tried to sound confident.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The drive home was more pleasant than the drive to Robbie's had been. She still worried about Aiden, but at least now she had someone to talk to. Caroline proved to be pleasant company, and even though the women were different in many ways they were similar enough to enjoy each other. The several hours it took to get back to Beeson Hall passed quickly, and by the time they arrived the two were comfortable with each other.

"Welcome back." Maureen said as soon as Mary got out of the car. She and Colin were outside and Mary was reminded of the first day she arrived at Beeson Hall.

"It's good to be home. Maureen and Colin March, this is Caroline Finch." Mary opened the trunk and Colin reached for the bags.

"Good to meet you Miss." Colin said with a welcoming smile.

"I can do that Colin." Mary said.

"Nonsense, Miss. I haven't been able to do for you all weekend and I have to say that I missed it." Colin answered.

"Your things arrived earlier today, Miss Caroline." Maureen said. "I started unpacking your clothes, but I thought you might like to arrange your books yourself." The housekeeper led the two women into the dimly lit foyer and Colin followed with the bags, he left again to get Aiden's chair.

"Is Aiden here yet?" Mary asked, noticing the fresh scent of wood polish.

"Not yet, Miss." Maureen left the door ajar for Colin. "I wouldn't worry though, you said you were leaving as soon as Mr. Aiden woke up, he was probably hungry."

"I'm sure your right, I just don't like to think of him out there in hostile territory." Mary said. Colin came in again and left the chair in the hall and went to put the car in the garage.

"If anyone can handle a little hostility it's Mr. Aiden." Maureen laughed confidently and Mary told herself that the housekeeper was right. "There are some cookies and fruit in the kitchen if either of you are hungry."

"You're homemade oatmeal raisin cookies?" Mary asked, a little smile teasing at the corners of her mouth.

"And what else would I welcome you home with?" Maureen asked, trying to sound serious.

"Come on, I'll give you the short tour tonight and you can wander around more tomorrow." Mary led Caroline toward the kitchen. "Oh, what room is Caroline staying in?"

"The one at the other end of the hall from yours with the double doors." Maureen picked up the bags and started upstairs.

"The one that used to be a schoolroom?" Mary asked.

"That's the one." Maureen nodded. Caroline looked a little surprised.

"Don't worry, Ambrose or someone converted it into a guest room. You'll get the light in the afternoon and there is plenty of storage for books." She led Caroline into the kitchen.

*~*~*~*~*~*

In the next two weeks, every inch of Beeson Hall was well on the way to being either scrubbed, polished, rearranged, repainted, aired out or otherwise brightened up for company, and some places were on the list for multiple assaults. In the beginning, Mary was worried that Caroline would be more accustomed to others catering to her needs, but if that was the case it didn't show. She worked alongside Mary, Maureen and the new maid, Joanna. Surprisingly enough, she always seemed upbeat about the whole thing. Even Aiden was involved, though in a more limited way. He and Colin did most of the furniture moving when it was needed. Mostly though, he thought that Mary was working too hard and worrying too much about what these others thought. He often told her so, while his large knuckles worked the knots out of her sore muscles just before she fell asleep.

Joanna turned out to be a breath of fresh air. She was a heavily built young woman and while her hips were too broad to fit the nearly-emaciated modern standard of beauty she had a ready smile, and a sparkling laugh that could brighten a room or lighten a burden. It was Maureen that first suggested bringing her into their confidence about Aiden. Mary already knew that Aiden was willing to meet anyone she trusted, she just had to decide if she trusted Joanna.

She also found that she enjoyed Caroline's company in a way she hadn't thought she would. Maureen had been a motherly presence, and Mary was grateful for that. Her other friends in the village were closer to her own age, but didn't know about Aiden, and she found that she censored herself heavily when she talked to them. She also found herself lying at times when they suggested young men for her to date. All in all, those things made for weak, superficial friendships in which few real thoughts or feelings were exchanged.

"You should tell her you know." Caroline and Mary were sitting in the newly-polished library, enjoying an afternoon without work.

"Tell who?" Mary was fairly certain that she knew, but she had learned recently that assumptions frequently caused trouble.

"Joanna." Caroline was knitting another soft gray wool panel for a sweater she was making. "You know as well as I do that she won't tell anyone until the time is right."

"I know she won't tell anyone intentionally or maliciously." Mary sighed. "I just worry that the more people who know the more likely it is that someone will slip up."

"The world is going to have to know sometime." Caroline said. Mary knew her friend was right, but that didn't mean she liked the idea of everyone knowing about Aiden and the others. 

"I know that, but I guess I want to control how they find out. And, I don't want Aiden to still be the only one when the news breaks. I don't think it would be fair to him." She turned over her embroidery, ended one thread, and started another.

"I can't argue with that logic." Caroline said. The women fell silent when they heard the front door open.

"Hope you don't mind me coming in the front way Miss Mary." Joanna said.

"Not at all." Mary said. "How's your mother doing?"

"Good as one can expect. She gave her ankle quite a turn the other day." Joanna stopped in the doorway to the library. "Callie Watts asked me the strangest question when I was in Mr. Leeson's shop though."

"What was that?" Caroline asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Mary noticed her new companion always took a keen interest in village gossip.

"She asked if I had ever seen the monster that lived here. Could you imagine anything sillier?" Joanna laughed a little and took the scarf off of her hair.

"A monster? Where in the world did she come up with that?" Mary smiled and shook her head slightly.

"I don't know, Miss. But the story's been floating around as long as anyone can remember." Joanna laughed.

"What?" Mary looked up, stunned.

"Oh yes." Joanna sat down. "Anytime someone goes missing or loses a pet or some of their livestock everyone says it's the Monster of Beeson Hall. No one really believes it I don't think, but they all say it because they've always said it. It's become one of those stories they use to scare little children into being good, I suppose."

"What kind of monster is it?" Caroline asked. Mary was glad, she wouldn't have been able to muster such innocent curiosity.

"I don't know really." Joanna looked as if the thought had never occurred to her. "The kind with big teeth and long claws. How many kinds of monster are there?" The maid laughed and waved dismissively with her hand. "It's only silliness anyway, Miss. Can I bring either of you anything?"

"No, thank you Joanna." Mary said. Caroline shook her head as well. 

"Dinner will be ready at the usual time then." She got up and left the two women alone. As soon as the maid was gone, Caroline turned and looked meaningfully at Mary.

"Alright, I agree that she should know." Mary said. "But that doesn't keep the whole village from blaming Aiden every time some old lady's cat runs off."

"No it doesn't, but it's a start anyway." Caroline said.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Telling Joanna was much like telling Colin and Maureen, except this time she had some support from others who knew Aiden. After the initial shock of meeting the 'monster of Beeson Hall' in the flesh, Joanna accepted him and Mary's terms of temporary silence and he accepted the maid into his extended family. 

They never talked about it, but Mary knew that he missed having others to care for. Sometimes he would tell her about the role of a leader among his kind. Mary was surprised to learn that a gargoyle chieftain was more than a political figure, he was respected much like a father was, and he behaved accordingly toward others in his clan.

The way he looked at her when Joanna and the others left pushed any thoughts of traditions and cultural roles to the back of her mind.

"Wait-" She was laughing as he pulled her into his lap so that she was straddling him. 

"Why? We are alone." He pulled her skirt out of the way. She could feel the intensity of his need as he pulled her forward, his lips possessing hers.

"They might-" His tongue invaded her mouth, one talon slid inside the front of her panties. Mary moaned as he tore through the cotton. "They might come back in." Her voice breathless.

"Why would they?" His tail pushed inside her from behind. Mary bit back a sharp cry and slid forward a little, his swift entry bordering on painful. He held still inside her until she relaxed against him, then his tail started to tease her.

"Because they might hear me, and wonder what's going on." Her mouth found his, logic quickly being overwhelmed by the pleasure of being in his arms. She felt him opening his belt and stopped his hands before she lost all reason.

"Colin, Maureen and Joanna have undoubtedly left already. Caroline was tired. Besides, I could demand that you comply." He smiled slightly.

"And I will." She kissed the side of his muscled neck softly. "Just not here." Her grin was mischievous. 

"As you wish then." He smiled his toothy grin. Mary moved to get up, but his tail followed her, staying buried deep inside her. Mary moaned and tried another direction, only to find that he kept her achingly, deliciously, frustratingly full.

"Come on that isn't fair." Her laugh was mixed with a moan. Mary's hands reached between them, stroking his long, thick shaft through the simple garment. He held the back of her head and growled softly.

"That is not helping your case." His hips were moving under her. The tip of his teasing tail pressed forward, nearly bringing her over the edge. Mary buried her face against his shoulder to stifle the cry. 

"Aiden, please." Mary's voice was plaintive, but she wasn't sure what she was pleading for anymore. Her hand was working it's way inside his loincloth, her body aching for more contact with his. Without warning his tail slid out of her slick opening. She looked into his eyes, feeling as though she would shatter from the force of the need he had created in such a short time.




Heart of Stone Ch. 11



"Upstairs." He kissed her softly. Mary moved awkwardly off of his lap. The denim skirt she wore covered her to her knees as always, but her ruined panties left her bottom and dripping sex fully exposed underneath. Her knees shook and her juices made her inner thighs slick as she trotted quickly up the stairs, his long strides easily matching her swift steps.

Aiden closed the door and undressed as he walked, the look of intensity in his eyes made Mary's hands tremble as she pushed her skirt down over her hips. His hardness bobbed in front of him as he crossed to room to her. He stopped in front of her, watching as she undressed. Mary's didn't bother with the buttons on her blouse, her fingers fumbled too much and the look in his eyes told her that he wasn't in the mood to wait. The truth was, she wasn't either. She pulled it off over her head and managed the front clasp on the bra.

He stroked her cheek softly. His voice was somewhere between a growl and a guttural moan, a small smile on his lips. She recognized it as the command a male gave to a female to tell her she was expected to submit immediately. It was the only phrase she had ever heard him speak in his own language, her stomach did flip-flops.

"Aiden-" She shook her head slightly and reached out to caress his chest. He caught her hand and repeated himself, his eyes on hers. Mary bit her lower lip and got onto the bed, letting him guide her into the position that he wanted. She knelt, her head down on the bed, bottom raised, her legs spread, her face was crimson with embarrassment. She could feel herself starting to shake. The first time he took her this way Mary wasn't as ready as she usually was and it had ended with her bruised and in tears. She forgave him of course, and accepted his gentle ministrations after, but the fear of him telling her to submit again was very real to her.

She felt him move behind her. A little whimper escaped her lips when one of his large hands stroked the side of her hip. Instead of feeling him push inside her though, his warm tongue teased her exposed slit. She groaned softly and pressed back against his mouth. Aiden held her open a little wider, his tongue pressed deep inside her, taking over where his tail left off. Mary groaned, grasping handfuls of the covers as she pressed back against his mouth.

Aiden's supple tongue worked quickly and Mary lost track of the world around her as she was buffeted by waves of deep pleasure. Before she felt connected with herself again he moved behind her, the broad head of his erection against her dripping opening. She heard her own soft pleasure whimpers as he moved slowly inside her, giving her time to adjust before moving in deeper. Finally, when her body could accept no more of him, he began to move. 

His hips moved slowly at first and Mary began to meet his movements. Her pleasure sounds and more insistent movements encouraged Aiden to increase his pace. Before long both were crying out with every forceful movement. Mary found herself carried forward and balancing on the edge of an even more intense sensation when Aiden paused.

"Please," She whimpered and squirmed against him. "Don't stop."

He chuckled softly and continued, but Mary needed only one more hard thrust to take her over the edge. Her muscles clenched around him and his talons dug painfully into her hips and his roar filled the room as his release consumed hers. Mary's whole body shook as the intensity of her orgasm shook her body again in such a short space of time. 

For several blissful minutes he lay buried inside her, his body folded over hers, arms around her, wings spread over both of them. She heard his breathing and the soft, contented growling sounds he made close to her ear, but the world beyond his body was unimportant.

Slowly, he moved back and away from her, his softening shaft leaving her body almost reluctantly. She felt their combined juices start to trickle down her thighs. 

"Stay where you are." She felt his weight shift as he got up. Mary moved to lay on her side, but he held her in place. "Be still." He said softly. His hand stroked her back and Mary forced herself to stay in position. She heard water running and he returned with a warm, wet cloth. Mary shivered a little while he cleaned her. After what seemed like an eternity of being exposed, he lay down and pulled her into his arms. Mary immediately hid her face against his chest, and Aiden cradled her while she recovered.

"Why?" She asked, her voice barely audible.

"Because I could not leave you with only a painful memory." He murmured, his talons tracing patterns on her back, making Mary shiver pleasantly.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

By the time the Hall was finished, everyone was exhausted but pleased with how it had turned out. There were no major changes in the overall look of the house, but the few cosmetic changes definitely made it more presentable in Mary's estimation. The date had been pushed back two weeks to accommodate an engagement of Nigel's, but that just gave Mary more time to get things settled as she wanted them.

It also gave her more time to worry about what could go wrong. By the time people started arriving, Mary was used to the undercurrent of nausea that had been clinging to her for more than two weeks. She was glad she had stuck to a less formal plan for the gathering and the meal. She wasn't certain that she would have been able to stomach the complex flavors of a meal similar to Robbie's. After dinner, Veronica and Ramona were the first to join her on the lighted outdoor terrace. A path defined by lights led off into the garden beyond.

"Are you feeling alright, Mary?" Ramona looked concerned. "You look a bit tired."

"Getting the Hall in order took more energy than I thought it would." She smiled a little and sipped her coffee. They heard a leathery flapping and Aiden walked out of the shadows.

"It's good to see you again." Veronica said. Aiden bent down to accept her kiss on the cheek.

"Nice to see you as well." He smiled but hid the most fearsome of his teeth. 

"Has Mary told you what we're doing this evening?" Ramona kissed his cheek lightly as well.

"No. But she has been studying until all hours." Aiden smiled at her.

"That didn't help much." Mary tried to force a little laugh. "There are so many techniques and all the books really said was that it's up to the aggregator how the power of the others is focused and used. The test itself I got from one of Ambrose's journals."

"The important thing is not to let the others intimidate you." Veronica said.

"Why would she do that?" Quentin asked as he joined the others. "Aiden, I was wondering if you would be around this evening." He shook Aiden's offered hand.

"Of course. As you were eating your dinner I was getting mine as well." He smiled and soft laughter rippled through the small group. Mary stood back and watched as the group gathered and made small talk with Aiden and each other.

"Are you ready?" Robbie asked. Mary hadn't seen him come out, much less stand next to her.

"Ready as I'll ever be I guess." She smiled a bit.

"You know, if you aren't well, this may not go as planned. Your abilities won't function quite the same." He looked concerned. 

"Thanks, but I'm just a little tired and overwrought." Her smile was more genuine this time. "Best to get on with it."

"You'll do fine." He smiled in his fatherly way and Mary took a deep breath. She moved to the edge of the stone terrace and turned to face the group. 

"If I could have everyone's attention." She pulled the shawl she was wearing closer around herself as the rest quieted down. "I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight, I know it required some creative scheduling for some of you. If you would just follow the lighted path to the large boulder, it's a short walk, and some of you have been there before."

"Ambrose's practice stone?" Nigel asked.

"Yes. I thought since it worked for him, it would be a good place to start." Mary said.

"A good idea." Gordon agreed. He offered Veronica his arm. Mary walked at the back of group with Aiden. He stroked her back softly as they walked, and she smiled up at him. 

When they turned the corner the group had already arranged themselves around the large, white boulder that reminded Mary of a slumbering elephant. She noticed that they were standing so that their pairs faced each other, except for Ron and Alex, they stood next to each other, facing the place left for Mary. She took a deep breath and walked into her place.

"We'll begin with the words." Andy said.

"How we begin is for Mary to say." Gordon disagreed. It was a strange feeling for Mary, hearing voices coming out of the darkness when she couldn't always see the speakers.

"If we don't have words, we can't focus." Ron added.

"Not everyone works the same way." Ramona countered. "You know as well as I do that the aggregator-"

"She doesn't even know what she's doing!" Stuart sounded exasperated. The breeze, which had been gentle and pleasant all evening, picked up to a full-scale gust of wind. Aiden moved closer behind Mary, sheltering her as much as he could.

"Oh for heaven sake, no one does the first time." Quentin shouted to be heard over the roar.

"Would you all just STOP!" Mary was surprised to hear herself shout, but it did end the bickering, and surprisingly the wind. Aiden waited and then stepped back.

"Quite right." Robbie said. "Just tell us what you need us to do." Mary was glad he was standing next to her, he smiled reassuringly. Mary took a deep breath.

"I want everyone to close their eyes and picture the place in your bodies where your will resides." Mary glanced around and saw that at least everyone's eyes were closed. She closed her own eyes and continued in an even tone. "Picture that spot swelling with your will, growing like berry grows from a blossom until the whole space is filled." All Mary heard was the sound of rhythmic breathing.

"When that place is full, let your will begin to migrate to your hands. Feel it almost like a physical sensation of warmth, moving from your shoulders, down your arms to your palms. Let the movement of will be a constant, feel it collect in your palms until it feels as though it will spill from your fingertips." She heard the breathing of the others deepen, almost as if they were asleep. She kept her voice even. "When you feel the need, place your palm against the person's next to you, letting the will flow between you." 

Mary opened her eyes but remained silent. One by one she saw each member of the group raise their hands to shoulder height, palms facing out. When each one was ready, they touched the person next to them. When the only break in the circle was her, Mary touched Robbie and David and took a deep breath when she felt the surge of will. She drew it into herself, adding it to her own. 

"Keep concentrating on moving your will to your hands, but open your eyes." She waited until every pair of eyes she could see was on her. "No matter what, stay focused on your will flowing into your hands." 

Mary took a deep breath and focused the collection of will on the rock, tracking it with her eyes as it lifted slowly from its bed in the ground until it was just over their heads. She was so focused that the world had gone silent and still around her, except for her own heartbeat. Slowly, she let the boulder roll in the air before setting back in the ground again. She felt the vibration through her feet as it settled in its bed again. Mary separated her own will from the will of the others and lowered her hands. The others followed suit around the circle. Veronica was the first to speak.

"Mary, that was-" Mary didn't hear the rest of what Veronica was saying though. The world spun around her and then went black.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary woke inside, but it took her a moment to realize she was in the sitting room. There was a cool cloth on her head and she could hear soft voices in the room with her, when she looked over she wasn't surprised to see Maureen and Aiden, but she was surprised to see Nigel.

"What happened?" She took the cloth off of her head as she sat up.

"You fainted." Maureen took the cloth from her. "Mr. Aiden carried you back inside." She looked at Aiden and saw how worried he was.

"Could I have some water, please." She asked.

"Of course, Miss." Maureen hurried out and Mary could hear a soft murmur of conversation as the door opened. Nigel sat next to her and grasped her wrist, feeling her pulse. Mary looked at him strangely, he laughed softly.

"We don't tend to discuss our professions at these gatherings, but I'm a doctor." His smile was reassuring.

"Sorry." Mary murmured.

"Quite alright." He let go of her wrist and moved his finger in front of her eyes. Mary obediently followed it. "I know you didn't hit your head when you fell because Aiden caught you. Have you had these spells before?"

"No, I think I might have just been too worked up earlier." She smiled a little. Maureen returned with a glass of ice water, and bits of conversation leaked in again. "Thank you." Mary sipped it and started feeling a little better. 

"That would certainly be understandable, aggregation can be a shock to the system, especially the first time." He smiled and got up. "You see the local doctor when you're ill?"

"Yes." Mary took another sip of the water. Dr. Carlyle was not her favorite person in the village. He usually managed to tell her more gossip in the fifteen or twenty minutes she spent with him than anyone else could in an hour. She could only imagine what he said about her. "I really think that all I need is a little rest though."

"You're probably right." He smiled and got up. "All the same though, if you're still feeling ill next week you should go see him."

"I will, thanks." She smiled.

"I'll give your goodnights to the others, I think if you could get a bit of sleep it would do you good." Nigel left with Maureen. As soon as the door was closed Aiden picked her up and held her in his lap. Mary curled up against him and closed her eyes, feeling even more tired than she did before.

"Mary, if this makes you so ill-"

"No." She said firmly before he could finish the thought. Her eyes on his. "I just wasn't prepared this time." She put her head down again. "I'm very glad you were there though."

"It was quite an amazing sight, child." She could feel him smiling. Mary couldn't help but smile a little herself.

"It was something, wasn't it?" Mary couldn't help but be proud of her accomplishment. Ambrose's journal said that he and his group had managed to lift the boulder only to the height of his knees and they had counted that a great success. She relaxed against Aiden's chest, waiting for the all clear to go up to bed.



Heart of Stone Ch. 12



Author's Note: I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to read, enjoy and review this story. I love knowing what you all think. To the Anonymous reviewer who mentioned my transposition of the "Your" and "You're" in the previous chapter...i HOPE that's the only time it's happened, but it is very hard to see those things when reading my own work sometimes. Unfortunately, i don't know how to go back and fix that now that it's posted. So, i'll apologize and hope you will all forgive me.

I hope you continue to enjoy this - and future - chapters.

psyche b

12. Surprise

Aiden was even more watchful that night than he was usually. Mary had to practically push him out of the bathroom so that she could shower. In the end he only left because she agreed to leave the door open, so that if she fell he would hear her. She had barely dried off when he scooped her up and brought her into the bedroom. Mary found she was too tired to protest. She curled up against him and was asleep before Aiden even got the covers arranged around her.

The next morning, Mary went downstairs early and completely bypassed the rooms where she expected her guests to gather, preferring the kitchen. Joanna and Maureen were both putting the finishing touches on the meal. 

"Morning." Mary poured herself a cup of coffee.

"What are you doing in here, Miss? You're guests will wonder if you're still feeling poorly." Maureen said.

"I need a cup of coffee before I face another crowd." She added sugar and a little milk and sat down at far end of the table. "God knows what they're saying about me anyway."

"I'm sure they're all hoping you feel better. You still look a little pale." Maureen handed the fork she was tending the sausages with to Joanna so she could sit with Mary for a minute. "Are you certain that you're feeling alright?"

"I'm fine." Mary said firmly. "I just need to start sleeping a little more. It all smells wonderful by the way." That wasn't the whole truth. The look and smell of the eggs turned her stomach, but she wasn't about say anything. Maureen would have only asked more questions. 

"I've been telling you that for the last month." Maureen got up again. 

"I know. And I didn't listen." Mary smiled a little, and picked up a platter of pastries. "I'll start bringing things into the dining room."

"You'll do nothing of the kind." Maureen said, taking a platter from her.

"Maureen-"

"No! I might have gotten used to you wanting to scrub and polish because from what you've told me that's how you were raised, but I'll not let you act like a servant in your own house when you have guests here." Maureen set the platter down again and smiled a little. "Besides, what would they think of me?" Mary laughed a little.

"You win. I'll go be a good hostess." Mary took another long swallow of her coffee. "Where are they?"

"Out on the terrace." Maureen started putting the sausages on a plate and Mary realized how good they looked.

"Thanks." She grabbed one from the plate and ate it on the way out to the terrace. She was surprised that it actually seemed to settle her stomach a little.

Mary was expecting to see Veronica, Caroline, Ramona and Robbie for breakfast. Nigel and Quentin had stayed as well though, and even though she was surprised, she was glad to see both of them.

"Good morning everyone." She noticed that there was coffee and tea set out on two wrought iron tables. Matching chairs were placed in conversation clusters. The assembled group greeted her warmly. She fielded several questions about how she was feeling and how she slept before Joanna announced that breakfast was ready in the dining room. Everyone served themselves and even though Mary took some of the eggs the thought of actually eating them turned her stomach. She concentrated on the sausages and fruit.

"Well, since no one else is going to say it, I will." Veronica said. "Last night was probably the most amazing thing I've ever been a part of."

"It was?" Mary was genuinely surprised. She knew it had gone well - not counting her little spell – but she didn't think it was all that wonderful.

"When we worked with Ambrose it felt like a great physical effort that produced very little result, but his technique was far different from yours." Quentin said. "Where did you find it?"

"Well, I don't know really." Mary sipped her juice. "I read a number of different sources, but none of them really made sense to me so I read through Ambrose's journals. He wrote about searching the literature and choosing the technique that made the most sense to him. I did the same thing, I just got a little more creative."

"Do you fee ready to try waking Esme?" Robbie asked.

"Well, not this morning." Mary laughed softly. "But yes, I think that should be the plan. If we fail I don't think we can make it any worse than it already is."

"It's going to work this time." Ramona's statement was firm and Mary didn't want to be the one to be the voice of doubt.

The rest of the meal was spent in good-natured conversation and laughter. A few possible dates for the attempt to wake Esme were discussed, but without the whole group present it was impossible to make a firm plan.

Only Veronica stayed on for lunch and Mary was glad to have most people gone. Exhaustion had been creeping up on her ever since the middle of breakfast. The only explanation Mary could come up with was the lack of sleep from the previous weeks. At two in the afternoon she lay down for a short nap, and was awakened by Aiden sitting down next to her. She could see the concern in his eyes whenever he looked at her, even though he didn't mention it.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Over the next few weeks, Mary's life seemed to revolve around the telephone, her e-mail and food. She was still trying to find a date to wake Esme. This time it was harder than before. She had expected opposition from Andy and his faction, but he was surprisingly cooperative after her display. From the tone of his voice on the phone she could tell he was grudgingly impressed. Things were simply not lining up with everyone's calendars.

Food was a recent obsession. Mary had always enjoyed a relatively untroubled relationship with food. She liked a balanced diet and wasn't a particularly picky eater, but lately the only balance in her diet seemed to trying to find a happy medium between nausea and ravenous hunger. She noticed that if she was too hungry she got sick, but the smell of just about anything she would normally enjoy could trigger the same feeling. Just the scent of eggs, milk, yogurt and anything sweet made her stomach turn. She hadn't noticed that some of those things even HAD a smell before now. Meat of almost any description was a different story though. There were times that was all she wanted and it always had the ability to settle her stomach.

By the beginning of the third week she was ready to admit that it was more than just nerves or exhaustion, but she was hesitating to call Dr. Carlyle. Mary knew that she was being silly, it just seemed so difficult to pick up the phone. Mary had almost convinced herself to do it when the phone rang.

"Beeson Hall." She answered, silently thanking whoever was on the other end.

"Mary? This is Nigel Pressman." He seemed surprised to hear her answer.

"Hey Nigel, how are you?" Mary asked.

"Doing well, and you?" Nigel had become one of her favorite people in the group, even before her little spell.

"Well, I haven't fainted again." She laughed softly. "I don't think I told you how much I appreciate your help that night."

"It was my pleasure." She could hear the smile in his voice. "I've been looking at the revised dates you sent me, and I think that either the fifth of September or the seventeenth of October would work best for me." Mary made a quick note on her calendar.

"The fifth is looking good. Ramona's the only one who hasn't responded." Mary said.

"You might have to track her down. We all love Ramona, but she's a bit scattered sometimes." She heard him chuckle softly.

"I'll do that, thanks." Mary smiled and made a note of that too, she sighed a little. "Nigel, this is kind of outside the scope of why you called, but I was hoping I could ask you a question or two."

"That sounds rather mysterious." She could hear the smile in his voice. "Ask anything you like."

"I was wondering what kind of medicine you practice." The words came out in a rush, and Mary knew it was obvious how nervous she was. 

"Obstetrics and gynecology." Nigel sounded curious. "Are you REALLY alright?"

"I don't know, I think so. The thing is," Mary took a deep breath. "The thing is I think I might be pregnant, and I would rather not have the whole village speculating about the possibility within forty-eight hours."

"When will you be in London next?" He didn't even hesitate. Mary felt all the gathered tension drain out of her body.

"I don't really have any plans one way or the other, but my schedule is pretty open."

"Good. If you can come to my office later tomorrow morning, I'll see to it you get in." He gave her his office address and reassured her that she would be fine. Mary sat back in the chair with her hand over her stomach. It was the first time she said it out loud and she hoped she hadn't jinxed anything. She had already decided to wait and tell Aiden when she was certain herself. Caroline was a different story. She didn't want to go to London alone and she didn't want to lie about why she needed a companion. She doubted her friend would refuse though.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary sat in the waiting room, filling out the forms the receptionist gave her and trying to keep her nerves under control. Everything seemed to be taking too long since she got off the phone with Nigel. Dinner took ages. Not telling Aiden seemed to take an eternity, and on the drive there she was beginning to think that someone had moved the city. Now that she was sitting there, everything seemed to be moving too fast. Before she was finished with the paperwork, she was taken into an examination room where a young nurse with a friendly smile and efficient manner took her vitals and a blood sample. She was directed to a restroom and gave a urine sample, then she changed into the gown she was given and waited alone for Nigel.

"Hello Mary." It was a little strange to see him in a white coat, but his smile was the same. "Miss Sinclair tells me you're very nervous." He glanced at the nurse who had taken her vitals.

"I'm trying not to be." She managed a little smile. "I'm still wrapping my mind around the possibilities." 

"Nature does her best to surprise us sometimes." Mary had to keep from laughing out loud. He had no idea how true the statement was. "If you don't feel comfortable with me doing the physical exam I can have one of my colleagues come in and take care of that part of it."

"I think I'll be alright, thanks." She smiled again.

"Let me know if that changes. A few questions first though." He asked a number of standard questions and by the time the exam actually started Mary was more relaxed than she thought she would be. Nigel was thorough but Mary found that she was as comfortable throughout as she could have been in that situation. When he finished he told her to dress and Miss Sinclair would take her to his consulting room.

The office was only a short walk down the hallway but Mary felt her butterflies and nausea returning. She took a bite of the beef jerky she had started carrying in her purse and hoped no one noticed.

"Please sit." Nigel moved out from behind his desk and sat in the wing chair next to hers, her chart in his hands. He was smiling and she took that as a good sign.

"Well?" Mary realized the suspense was killing her.

"Well, when the blood test comes back I'll be certain, but from what you've told me and from the physical signs I feel comfortable saying you are pregnant. About six weeks would be my best guess." Mary felt worry and excitement begin to vie for dominance. "Is this good news?" She could see his concern and it brought her out of the jumble of her thoughts.

"Yes!" Her shocked expression gave way to wide smile when she thought about how happy Aiden would be. "This is the best news you could have given me."

"Good." His smile returned. "I want you to start taking the standard prenatal vitamins, and I'll give you the name of a colleague of mine, you'll be in competent hands-"

"No." Mary said firmly, she could feel her heart starting to beat faster. "I can't see someone else."

"Mary, I appreciate your confidence but I specialize in high-risk pregnancies and infertility. You're young, obviously in good health, there's no reason to think you'll have any trouble at all." If she had been anyone else with an ordinary human husband she would have been reassured by his tone and the look of concern in his eyes. 

"This is Aiden's baby." The words were out before she could think of a better way to say it.

"Aiden who?" Nigel asked. Mary laughed.

"You know, big guy, wings and a tail? He's pretty easy to pick out of a crowd." She hoped her answer didn't sound too sarcastic. Tears were starting to well up in her eyes.

"You mean-" He stopped and gathered his thoughts before continuing. She could tell he was having a hard time wrapping his mind around it. "My turn to be surprised."

"I know there are rules. He explained them to me, but, we were in love and that was more important than the rules. I think he had a harder time overlooking them than I did." Mary had told the story so many times she was almost used to the silence that followed her revelation.

"Forgive me." He smiled a little. "Thinking back on his reaction when you fainted I shouldn't be all that surprised."

"I never asked what happened that night." Mary knew Aiden would have been concerned, but it never occurred to her that his actions might have been so telling.

"Well, you know that he caught you before you hit the ground, and you know Robbie was standing next to you. Of course when we saw you collapsing Robbie stepped toward you, but the look Aiden gave him was almost threatening. Before anyone could say anything he picked you up and flew back to the house with you. It took Mrs. March and Caroline a few minutes to calm him down, and convince him to let me in to see you." He smiled slightly. "We were all so concerned about you I don't think anyone read his actions as a male protecting his mate. I certainly didn't."

"Caroline knows, and so does Robbie. Some of the others might have guessed. I wanted to tell everyone that first night you all met Aiden, but Robbie advised me not to." Mary started to calm down again.

"Wise advice. There are a few who will have a very hard time with this." Nigel thought for a moment. "I don't want to lie to you, if you had come to me seeking fertility counseling I would have told you that the possibility of you becoming pregnant with Aiden's child was slim and none. I'm not certain that you'll be able to carry this pregnancy to term, or that child will be healthy if you do."

"I don't know either, but the thought of explaining everything to someone else-"

"There'll be no need for that." He waved the thought away dismissively. "I need a bit more information before I can formulate a credible plan, but you've made it through the first six weeks or so on your own and from what I can tell so far your pregnancy is substantially normal. I want you to take the vitamins, but for the moment that's all I'm going to prescribe. If they make you ill, stop taking them and call me immediately, either here or at home. Avoid, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and for the moment, all medications except the ones I prescribe for you. I want you to avoid stress if you can, that includes physical stress AND emotional stress. Taking a walk is alright, but nothing more strenuous. If you want to sleep more, by all means, do so. If you start bleeding, if you have cramping or any other sign that you're unwell, don't hesitate to call."

"Do you have a card with the office number on it?" Mary asked.

"You'll get a packet at the desk with all of that information and more. I want you to read it thoroughly. Do you think Aiden would answer a few questions for me?" Mary noticed that he had started to jot down notes. The file was angled so that she couldn't read what he was writing though.

"I don't see why not." She smiled a little. "He's going to be so thrilled when I tell him, I think he'll be happy to do whatever he can."

"It's Tuesday, I'll be going back out to the country late Friday afternoon. If you don't mind, I'll stop by then." Nigel's reassuring smile was back.

"I don't mind at all, will Natalie be with you?" Mary met Nigel's wife at the first meeting, and she had to say she really didn't care for the cool woman who looked down her nose at everyone. She didn't relish trying to entertain the woman, but she couldn't very well tell him not to bring her.

"No. Natalie made it very clear some years ago that she prefers to spend most of her time in the country. Besides, I would rather our conversation be private." He made another note, she could tell that he didn't like to talk about Natalie either. "Do you have any questions for me?" He looked over at her.

"One. I've been craving meat lately. Beef, chicken, fish, anything like that. Just the smell of a lot of other things that I would normally enjoy turns my stomach." Mary absently stroked her lower stomach, her eyes on him.

"From what little I know of the gargoyle diet, that's probably not unusual. Try to balance your diet as much as you can for now. If you find there are some things you simply can't tolerate, avoid them and we'll revisit the issue at your next appointment. Anything else?" He smiled.

"No." Mary took a deep breath. "I just don't know how to react to all this. Half of me is VERY excited and the other half is terrified for a million reasons." She laughed a little.

"In this situation I would say that's a perfectly reasonable reaction." He stood and took her hands. "I want to see you here again in two weeks, you can schedule the appointment on the way out with the receptionist. There are some other tests I'm considering, but we'll talk about those on Friday." 

"Thank you." Mary smiled, feeling very relieved. "I'm not sure what I would have done if I had to explain this to Dr. Carlyle."

"You're very welcome." He kissed her cheek. "I'll see you Friday evening."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After a big lunch, Mary felt like doing a little shopping. The two women giggled their way through several shops that specialized in baby clothing and furniture and Mary bought a few things. Part of her was still afraid that getting too excited would only lead to heartbreak later, so mostly she restrained herself. She and Caroline were looking at a crib that converted into a twin bed when Mary felt someone looking at her. She lifted her head and saw Darren Rathbun's gaunt face in the shop window. He was still wearing the same neat, but unfashionable suit and his eyes held hers long enough that the saleswoman and Caroline saw her staring. He smiled slightly and a pinched-looking woman joined him. Mary recognized her at once. It was Maggie. 

"We have to go home." Mary said quietly.

"Who is that?" Caroline asked. Mary could hear the concern in her friend's voice, but her eyes didn't leave the window.

"Shall I ring for the police?" The saleswoman asked. She sounded just as concerned as Caroline.

"Yes." Caroline said.

"No." Mary said, her tone disconnected. While she watched, the pale man mouthed the words 'See you soon' before he and Maggie disappear into a group of people who happened to be passing.

"Is there somewhere I could sit down, please?" Mary asked, her knees starting to shake. The saleswoman helped her to a chair and offered her something to drink. Mary accepted some water, but the lightness of a few moments ago had dissipated completely. 




Heart of Stone Ch. 12



*~*~*~*~*~*

Caroline drove home and Mary napped in the passenger seat. She told Caroline an abridged version of who Darren Rathbun was. What she couldn't explain, to herself or anyone else, was what Maggie was doing with him. Mary wouldn't put it past the slimy little man to kidnap Maggie, but she also couldn't rule out the idea that the abrasive woman had been on his side the whole time. Either that or someone else was. Mary couldn't stand the thought of that. There were very few people who knew she was going to London, only one who knew she was in that particular shop. If Miss Marple were the one untangling the threads, that's all it would have taken. Unfortunately, Miss Marple had never encountered Darren. 

Mary took a short walk and ate a light dinner before going to bed. She intended to nap until it was time for Aiden to wake, but her body seemed to have other plans. When she finally woke up, he was laying next to her, reading by candlelight.

"You could turn a light on you know." Mary said, moving to snuggle against him.

"I know, but you were sleeping so soundly." He gathered her into his arms and kissed her forehead. Mary snuggled close and relaxed against his warm body.

"I can sleep anytime, I'd rather spend time with you." Mary yawned and struggled to wake up.

"I appreciate that child." He kissed the top of her head. "What did you do with your day in the city?" He hadn't been happy about her going. Even though he hadn't come right out and said he was worried about her health, she could tell from the way he looked at her that he was concerned.

"The usual things, had lunch, did a little shopping. I got you something." Mary looked up at him, a little smile in her eyes.

"Me?" Aiden chuckled softly. "You know I need nothing I do not already have." Mary squirmed away from him and got a shopping bag from the closet. Aiden sat up curiously.

"I didn't know what color to get." Mary reached into the bag and pulled out two baby sleepers, one in pink, one in blue. Aiden's eyes widened. "But I figured when the baby comes-"

Mary didn't get to finish her sentence, Aiden roared with joy and swept her up into his arms. Mary threw her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. She giggled and held on tightly while he spun around.

"Aiden, stop!" She laughed. "You're making me dizzy."

He sat down on the edge of the bed, his mouth found hers softly and Mary melted against him again.

"You are certain of this?" He asked, his eyes sparkling in the dim light.

"That's the other thing I did in London. I saw a doctor, and had it confirmed." Aiden's heavy brows drew together slightly. He pulled back from her but left his hands on her waist. "Aiden-"

"I know it is necessary. You've told me this, but it is difficult for me to let go of the idea of other females providing support for each other during pregnancy and childbirth." His arms tightened possessively around Mary again. 

"If you were human or if I were a gargoyle that would probably be enough, but with us being so different I want to make sure everything is alright, or as alright as it can be." Mary slid forward a little and he wrapped his wings around her.

"It bothers me that another has been so intimate with you." He said. Mary lifted his head and looked into his eyes.

"I've never thought of going to a doctor as being intimate." She was genuinely surprised by the comment. She pressed a little closer against him. "This is intimate." His arms tightened and Mary relaxed into him with a little sigh.

"How will you tell this doctor about me?" Mary knew what he meant.

"He already knows you." Aiden lifted his head and looked down at her. "I went to see Nigel because I knew he could be trusted with your existence. I'm lucky that he's an obstetrician."

"I am not certain if that makes me feel better or worse." His eyebrows were drawn together again.

"I hope you can become comfortable with it. He's coming here on Friday, he has a few questions for you." Mary kept her head against his shoulder.

"Me? What could I tell him?" Aiden asked.

"I think it's more about gargoyles, things that I wouldn't know. I don't even know how long your females are pregnant." Mary laughed softly. 

"Eleven months. How long are human females pregnant?" One hand stroked gently over her back.

"Nine months." Mary laughed and then got quiet.

"Something wrong dear one?" He unwrapped his wings so that she move back. Mary could see concern in his eyes.

"I'm just worried about everything. What if the baby doesn't survive? What if it does? I don't know the first thing about being a mother, except that I don't want to be like my aunt." Aiden leaned forward and kissed her, his lips teasing hers until Mary relaxed again.

"You will not be like your aunt. Maureen and the others will help you, and if you have wakened Esme by then, she will help as well."

"You HOPE she will." Mary said.

"She will." Aiden said firmly. "If she is not inclined to on her own, I will command it." His face was impassive, as if he had made a comment about the weather.

"I'm curious what you mean by that, but I need to get something to eat first." Mary squirmed off of his lap. Aiden reached out to pick her up but she stepped back and grasped his large hands. "Nigel said I could walk around, I'd like it if you came with me though." She smiled up at him and he leaned down to kiss her cheek.

"How could I refuse such an invitation?"

Mary could feel Aiden watching her carefully as she walked down the stairs, and she wondered if she should have kept the news to herself a little longer. If he was going to worry about her walking down to the kitchen for a snack it was going to be a very long few months for both of them. Mary found some beef stew in the fridge and started it heating. Just the rich, meaty smell made her stomach growl loudly. Aiden chuckled and moved in behind her. Mary blushed.

"It's you're fault you know." She laughed and leaned back against him. One of his large hands covered her lower tummy. Mary looked up at the little smile on his full lips, she couldn't resist smiling herself. "And I think you're proud of yourself."

"Of course I am. A male is always proud of the children he makes with his mate, even when they are still inside her." He kissed her lightly. Mary kept one of her hands over his and stirred with the other. When it was ready she sat and ate enough to quell the worst of her hunger before questioning him about Esme again.

"If she's from a different clan, how will you command her to do anything?" She asked.

"Certain clans had higher prestige than others. Of those that are left, mine has the highest rank. Even before, we were ranked third of all the clans in existence." He took a tentative taste of gravy that was left in the pot and shivered, a grimace on his face. Mary wasn't sure why he had started tasting things she ate, but he hadn't found much that he could tolerate. The only thing he seemed to enjoy were apples. Aiden pulled his chair over to the table and chose one out of the large bowl. He ate half of it in a single bite. "Of the ones who are left, I have the highest position."

"Who decided which clan was better?" Mary finished half the bowl quickly, then ate more slowly. "Was it just by which one had the most members?"

"No." He ate the other half of the apple before answering her. Much as he seemed to like the flavor of apples, his teeth weren't made to eat them efficiently. He wiped juice from his chin. "It is hard to say how it was decided, but the order was in place long before I was born. Territory was a part of it, so was the status of those we protected. But, the clans who were most powerful had the greatest number of peaceful ties to other clans. That way they had access to all the skills they did not possess themselves. Perhaps it was a kind of wealth." He chose another apple. Mary knew that the six that were in the bowl would be gone by the time they went back upstairs.

"It surprises me a little that it was based on alliances." Mary said, considering after how it sounded. "I mean-"

"You believed us to be warlike." Aiden smiled slightly.

"I'm sorry." Mary felt a blush heat her cheeks.

"Perhaps I have not told you enough of that side of our culture." He stroked her cheek lightly. "Besides, we can be very warlike and often are within our own clans. Those of us who were ranked highest learned that to alienate other clans was a threat to our very existence. The lower ranked groups had yet to learn that lesson."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary heard the doorbell ring around four o Friday and knew that it would be Nigel arriving. Caroline had gone out for the evening so Mary had been stretched out on the sofa, reading and trying not to think about Darren and the implications seeing him again would have. She ran her fingers through her hair, relying on Maureen to show him into the library. When he walked in, there was a young woman with him that Mary didn't immediately recognize. 

"Mary." He kissed her cheek lightly. "How are you feeling?"

"Pretty good. Even the nausea isn't as bad as it was when I came to see you." She smiled.

"Good. Keep eating according to your cravings for the moment. You remember Miss Sinclair?" He gestured to the young woman and she smiled at Mary. As soon as she did, Mary recognized her as the nurse.

"Yes of course." Mary said. "Please come in and sit down. I'm sorry I didn't recognize you at first."

"Not a problem, we didn't exactly meet in social circumstances." She sat down in one of the wing chairs. Mary was trying to think of a polite way to ask Nigel why he had brought the nurse when he began asking questions.

"I got your blood test back and you are indeed pregnant, just as we thought, but there was something unusual in the blood typing. You're medical records list you as A-positive. Do you happen to remember when your last test was taken?" He asked.

"No. Why? Is there something wrong with me?" Mary vaguely remembered a time when she was in elementary school that she'd had blood drawn. The doctor had been trying to convince her Aunt to let him do a more in depth study, but Patrice wouldn't hear of it. The memory was too vague to even mention though. She couldn't remember how old she was or even why the test was taken.

"Nothing at all that I can find." He smiled reassuringly. "All the counts and chemistries came back absolutely normal, but the type could be one of the reasons you were able to become pregnant with Aiden's child to begin with." 

"Nigel-" Mary started, her heart beating rapidly.

"I've told Miss Sinclair everything because I need a nurse who knows all the details. You can be assured she will not break your confidence." He said. Mary was not entirely convinced, but at that moment she didn't have much of a choice. "Do you think that Aiden would agree to give samples as well?"

"I don't know." Mary said. "You could ask him, he won't be up for a couple of hours though."

Mary, Nigel, and Miss Sinclair – Jenna – chatted about everything except health and babies over Maureen's roast chicken and mashed potatoes while they waited for the sun to go down. After a pleasant meal, they relaxed in the library in comfortable conversation. It was almost possible to forget the extraordinary reason for the visit. 

They were laughing amiably when Mary heard Aiden coming down the stairs. She heard him pause and realized that Maureen had probably intercepted him in the hall. The three of them fell into a nervous silence. Mary could tell Jenna was trying to cover her uncertainty about what she had gotten into.

"He looks imposing. Just get to know him a little." Mary said. She stood and walked into Aiden's arms when he opened the door. He held her close, as he always did in those first reunion moments.

"Are you well this evening, child?" He spoke softly next to her ear while his arms were around her. 

"Yes. I'm glad you're awake." She murmured. Mary always missed him when he slept, but in the last few days those hours apart loomed larger in her mind.

"As am I, dear one." He stood slowly and walked into the room. 

Aiden greeted Nigel and Mary introduced him to Jenna. She thought she noticed Aiden keeping his body between Mary and Nigel, but she told herself that she might be overly sensitive. Nigel explained why Jenna was there when everyone had taken their seats again.

"But Mary is well, and so is the child." Aiden said when Nigel explained about drawing more blood. He put his hand over Mary's and held on, as if he were about to sweep her away. "Why should I allow you to injure her for the sake of curiosity?"

"Aiden!" Mary was shocked and embarrassed.

"That's a fair question. I need a more accurate result because I'm planning for the future." He turned to Mary. "I realized I said something to you that I've never said to another patient of mine when I said I wasn't sure you would bring this pregnancy to term. The fact that this child exists and that you are as healthy as you are suggests that you have the same chance as any other mother that I see. That being said, I'm not at all certain that attempting a natural delivery would be safe for you or for the child." 

"How else are human children born?" Aiden relaxed his grip on Mary's hand.

"There is a surgical procedure that's used in cases where natural delivery would put the life or health of mother or baby in danger. Doctors sometimes use the same procedure to avoid complications before they arise." Nigel spoke without a hint of nervousness. That alone put Mary at ease.

"The mother survives this?" Curiosity was creeping into his voice. Mary got the sense that his curiosity would have to be satisfied before anything else happened.

"The vast majority of the time, yes. Survival rates for mothers and babies in distress are certainly higher than before surgery was available. I need to know more about Mary's blood because if this becomes necessary and she needs a blood transfusion, I could kill her by giving her the wrong type of blood." A silence bloomed between them. 

"I can see the wisdom in that, but I know of no painless way to take blood from a living thing." He shook his head slightly.

"Jenna, did you bring extra supplies?" Nigel asked over his shoulder.

"Of course." She said. "Shall I get them?"

"If you would, please." Nigel turned back to Aiden. "I'm going to have Jenna use the same procedure on me, so that you can watch."

Nigel rolled up his sleeve and Jenna drew a tube of blood as Aiden watched.

"That is all?" Aiden asked after Jenna removed the needle from his arm.

"Yes." Nigel held the gauze over the tiny wound until Jenna put a piece of tape over it. He carefully labeled the tube with his own name and 'Not for Testing'. "It's not perfectly painless, but it's very close."

"The amount you take will not harm Mary or the child?" Aiden asked.

"No. I will need to take twice that much, but it's perfectly safe." Nigel answered, putting his sleeve back in place while Jenna took care of the used needle.

"You are willing to do this, Mary?" Aiden asked. 

"I don't mind at all." Mary squeezed his hand and pushed up the sleeve of her sweater. Aiden watched closely as Jenna changed her gloves and prepared Mary's arm. Nigel began to ask Aiden questions about gargoyle physiology. It was something that Mary had never considered, aside from the external, visible things. She was surprised at how like human beings they were. Apparently, Nigel was too.

"You're more like us than I thought." Nigel made notes.

"YOU are more like US." Aiden corrected.

"You're right." Nigel smiled. "I keep forgetting your kind was here first."

"You were?" Mary asked.

"Yes." Aiden smiled. "We watched human beings change and progress. At first we thought of you as little more than animals, but as time went on we could see the value of forming alliances with your kind."

Jenna disposed of the needle and carefully labeled the two tubes of blood with Mary's name. She took out two long swabs with a plastic cover over them.

"If I you would open your mouth please." Mary did and the inside of her cheek was swabbed.

"What is that for?" Aiden asked.

"A DNA sample." Nigel read the confused look on Aiden's face immediately and explained what DNA was. "Would you let me take samples from you, too?"

"Why would you need to?" He asked.

"As a doctor, I need to know how Mary's pregnancy is possible. I know it sounds like curiosity, and in some ways I suppose it is." Nigel looked away, gathering his thoughts. "I spend my free time in the study of magic. There is no scientific explanation for it and I don't expect there to be. This pregnancy crosses into the realm of the scientific, and I have to explain it to myself." 

Aiden was silent, considering Nigel's words. Mary could feel her heart starting to beat faster, although she couldn't completely explain to herself why. Aiden had never intentionally hurt anyone, and she doubted he would deny her and the baby medical care.

"I will allow this, but if you wish to collect my blood I doubt such a small instrument will pierce my skin."

"I thought of that." Nigel said. "I've brought needles in several different sizes. If you want to stop at any time, just say so. I think we should start with the DNA sample first."

Jenna changed her gloves and asked that Aiden open his mouth. She hesitated when she saw the sharp teeth that were so well-concealed behind his full lips. To her credit, she let that uncertainty only paralyze her for a heartbeat. She closed the cover and put Aiden's name on the envelope.

Nigel started to examine Aiden's right arm. Mary knew that none of his veins were visible through his skin as blue lines, like they were in a human. There were a few places that were slightly raised though. He felt several places on the inside of Aiden's heavily muscled arm before Jenna applied the tourniquet. Mary began to see a faintly throbbing pulse in the crook of his arm.

"We're going to assume that you're circulatory system is the same as ours because we've no information to the contrary, so this should be over in one stick." Nigel said, half for Aiden's benefit, half for Jenna's. "If you feel any undue pain let us know." Aiden nodded and sat still.

Jenna looked for a way to get the needle between the fine scales that covered Aiden's skin, but didn't succeed. She tried another size, but had the same trouble.

"I'm sorry." Jenna said. It was clear that she was getting progressively more nervous.

"My skin is much thicker than Mary's." He smiled gently. "Perhaps if one of you would tell me what to do, I could do it myself."

"I'd rather not have it come to that." Nigel pulled on a pair of gloves and selected a needle that was much larger than the first two. Mary was nervous just looking at it, but Aiden didn't flinch. On his second try, Nigel hit a vein. He drew more of Aiden's blood than Mary's, but it was labeled in a similar way.

Jenna packed all the samples into a small cooler and left immediately after thanking Mary for her hospitality. Nigel explained she was carrying them to the lab. For another hour or so, Nigel asked more intimate questions about gargoyle diet and gestation. Aiden answered all of them and asked some very pointed questions of his own about what Nigel's role was in Mary's care, and exactly how he carried that out. By the time Nigel departed, he had more information and Aiden was more comfortable with Nigel being involved. In all, Mary considered it a good evening.



Heart of Stone Ch. 13



13. Seek and Ye Shall Find

Over the next few weeks, Mary began to feel physically better but she was having a difficult time adjusting to the new attention Aiden was lavishing on her. If she left the room for anything other than a trip to the bathroom, he would follow. He scrutinized her body and the changes that were just beginning to make themselves apparent seemed to fascinate him. His fascination embarrassed her and Mary found herself hiding in all the ways she used to when they were first mated.

At the same time, she was trying to cope with the other changes that the pregnancy brought about. Her abilities seemed to take over the role of protecting the child, whether or not she was concerned with his safety at that moment. Three weeks after her first visit with Nigel, she was coming out of the kitchen as Maureen was coming around the corner to enter. It was one of those moments when, under normal circumstances, both would have stopped short and laughed. On this particular day, Mary stopped and Maureen was knocked to the floor.

"I'm so sorry!" Mary offered the housekeeper her hand to help her to her feet.

"You didn't lay a hand on me, Miss." Maureen got up mostly on her own, but used Mary's proffered hand for balance. "I must have tripped. I don't know what else could have happened."

"It was me." Mary sighed. "In the last few weeks I feel like I have no control over my abilities. I worry someone who doesn't know about me or the baby is going to be around when something happens and then what am I going to say?"

"Sounds like nature taking it's course to me. Cup of tea?" Maureen asked.

"Yes thanks. Some of that herbal tea Aiden likes." She sat down at the table.

"Really? I've never known you to drink that." Maureen got the jar of herbs out of the cupboard and prepared the infusion. She used a regular tea bag for herself.

"I know. I used to hate it but the other night I made some for him and it smelled so good I tried it again. Must be a pregnancy thing." She found an apple in the bowl on the table and bit into it.

"I guess I was odd when I was expecting. I never had the cravings everyone talks about." She poured hot water into cups.

"I don't know if I would call them cravings so much as anti-cravings. I know what I don't want and everything else is okay. So far anyway."

"Do you take anything in this?" Maureen sniffed the tea and wrinkled her nose a little.

"No. Smells awful, doesn't it?" She smiled a little and took the cup.

"Are you sure you should be drinking that, Miss? What if one of those herbs is poisonous?" Maureen sat down across from her.

"I asked Nigel about it, he says it's probably better than regular tea or coffee." She sipped the hot liquid and sighed. It was horrible and heavenly at the same time. "Any ideas for a menu for the meeting next week?"

"Are you certain you still want to go through with it?" Maureen seemed surprised. True, Mary hadn't really mentioned the gathering or waking Esme very much since she found out about the baby, but that didn't mean the issue was off the table. Aiden wasn't being realistic about the whole thing. He talked about Esme being awake and helping with the baby, but he didn't like to hear about Mary waking Esme.

"Why wouldn't I?" 

"Well, after what happened the last time-"

"That was because it was the first time I had ever done it, and because I was ignoring my physical symptoms. This time, I pretty sure that I'll have better control over the physical stresses. At least I know what to look out for." Maureen didn't look convinced.

"What are you going to tell Mr. Aiden?" She asked.

"I don't know." Mary responded. "I was thinking of bringing it up when Nigel is here the day after tomorrow. I really don't think can put off waking Esme at least without answering questions that I don't want to answer." Mary kept regular appointments at Nigel's office, but on weeks she didn't come to London, he came to the Hall. It wasn't a formal kind of medical visit, but she knew it wasn't entirely social either.

*~*~*~*~*~*

"Aiden, you're not being realistic about this." Mary sat at her dressing table and brushed out her hair. The light blue nightgown she was wearing was new. The wide elastic panel around her upper back was stretchy and comfortable. The rest of the fabric was voluminous and easily covered the small bulge in her lower tummy. Logically, she knew that she looked no different to anyone else at this point. Having lived with her own body for so long though, little things seemed very apparent. At least she didn't feel like Aiden was staring at her.

"I am being very realistic. The last time you attempted something like this, you fainted. Clearly, that means it is unsafe." The lights flickered and the power failed again. Mary sighed and listened to Aiden get up and begin to move around in the darkness. Mary had looked into fixing the power, but the cost was formidable and the time it would take to do the job right meant that this side of the Hall would be unusable for months. She had been putting it off, but she was starting to rethink that position. She was silent, waiting for him to light the candles that were scattered around the room.

"You know that's because I wasn't used to the aggregation and because I was so early on in my pregnancy. I wasn't really eating right and I wasn't resting like I should have been. That part of it has been taken care of now. I've felt fine for weeks." She watched him moving in the mirror and drew the brush slowly through her hair.

"It is still a risk." He shook his head and lit the final candle.

"So is everything else I do every day, in one way or another." She watched him stretch out on the bed. "Besides you know how my abilities have been lately. I don't think I'd be able to overexert myself." She put the brush down, walked over to his side and straddled his hips. He pulled her close.

"I worry for you, Child." His hands moved under the silky fabric to caress her back and bare hips. Mary shivered pleasantly, and relaxed. "And for the little one inside you."

"I worry too, but you know as well as I do that I'm healthy and as far as anyone can tell, so is the baby. I know that you want Esme to be awake when he's born, the rest of the group can't do it without me." His arms tightened. Mary sighed, her eyes closed.

"I know." He kissed the top of her head. "But I fear losing you, and the child. I do not think I could stand such a loss again."

"I don't feel like I'm taking unnecessary risks though, and I think spending the next few months on eggshells is going to be even worse for the baby. If I'm stressed, he is too."

"You always refer to the child as male." She looked up at him and smiled a little.

"Well, I can't just say 'it' and 'her' feels wrong for some reason. Does it bother you?" Her fingers stroked over his chest lightly.

"No. I rather like it." He kissed her lightly. Mary deepened the kiss. One of his hands cupped her bottom and she arched against him. His mouth moved down over the side of her neck, Mary moaned deeply as it made its way back to her ear. "I thought you no longer desired me this way."

"Why would you think that?" Her tongue tickled the spaces between the rings in his earlobe. He moaned deeply, his talons bit into the soft flesh of her hip until the wave of pleasurable tension subsided.

"You have taken great care to hide from me of late." He started to lift the nightgown over her back. Mary finished the task of removing it. She moved to lay next to him. He turned onto his side and circled the back of one talon around her nipple. Mary moaned softly, her eyes closed.

"Not because I don't desire you." His light touches were building a need for more.

"Then why?" His lips were next to her ear. Her fingers moved down over his torso to the buckle of his belt. His lips teased hers.

"It's hard to explain." She let him go reluctantly, he stood and shed his garment before getting back into bed again. Mary was relieved to see that his need was still in the beginning stages as well. She curled up against him.

"Try." He stroked her lower back lightly. Mary relaxed, her roving fingertips drinking him in.

"My body feels different." His lips brushed over hers. It was the only way that she could describe the feeling.

"You are as beautiful as the first time I saw you. How could you doubt that?" His tongue explored her mouth. One wing arched over her. Mary moaned against his lips, her fingers traveling over the outside of his hip.

"You look at me so intensely now, sometimes I feel like you're looking for the flaws to appear, or like they already have and you can't stop staring at them." He chuckled softly.

"Those changes are not flaws, Child. It gives me pleasure to see your body ripening. The only thing that will give me more pleasure while we are waiting for the child to be born is to be able to feel him moving inside you." He kissed her again, this time more insistently. Mary wasn't certain if this statement would make her less self-conscious. But the feeling of his tail insinuating itself between her legs inflamed her desire. Mary turned onto her back and opened her legs wider. Aiden followed, his wings rustled above them.

Mary stroked his hardening shaft, her fingers exploring the landscape of his manhood as if for the first time. They hadn't made love in the usual way since before she found out about the baby. She had pleasured him, but had been too self-conscious to let him return the favor. Now, as Aiden's lips teased her firm nipples and then moved lower, Mary's keen need wasn't about to be put off again. 

Aiden's tongue teased her navel and made Mary squirm. As she moved, he settled between her legs. His lips lingered on the small bulge and then moved lower, over the front of her mound. She moaned and pressed his head lower with her hands, but Aiden didn't seem to want to move. He teased and nibbled the delicate skin there until Mary was whimpering and begging for more. Finally, he moved back and she was certain that he was going to give her what she so desperately longed for. But he didn't.

His lips and teeth lavished the same deliciously maddening attention on her right inner thigh. There were moments when his tongue came so close to her moist center that Mary cried out with need. When he moved to the left side, Mary was certain that she wasn't going to be able to stand it. 

"Please, Aiden." She moaned, trying to move so that his tongue would accidentally contact her needy flesh. He chuckled and let the tip of his tongue tease her delicate folds. Mary groaned. Even that teasing contact was bringing her closer. Her hips rocked against his mouth, her eyes closed. Without warning, his tongue pressed deep inside her. Mary was so close to the edge she was almost certain that moment would end her torment. It didn't. Aiden seemed to be almost as focused on her release as she was now. His tongue left her warm passage and flicked over the hidden hub of her pleasure. Mary gripped the bedspread and cried out, her wet sex pressed against his hungry mouth. Aiden held her hips, supporting her weight while he lapped at the freely flowing juices. She closed her eyes and fell into a comfortable pleasure haze.

Mary felt Aiden moving her body to straddle his hips again. She moved forward, her mouth finding his, lingering there, tasting herself on his lips and tongue. She started to move down his body, but Aiden stopped her. 

"Guide me." He said softly. Aiden almost never wanted her to be on top when they made love. Much as she tried, she simply couldn't move with enough force to bring him over the edge. That frustrated Mary because she knew he was frustrated.

"But-"

"I fear I will hurt you." He stroked her cheek and Mary kissed him again, her tongue stroking his as her hand stroked his thick member. She pressed down against him, whimpering as the broad head pushed inside her. He groaned, his talons digging into her hips, his eyes closed. Mary took as much of him inside herself as she could, and then stayed still, her body adjusting. He moaned when she started to move, the rhythm and pace building with each movement of her hips. 

Mary's sighing moans got lost in his rumbling pleasure growls. When the boundary of her pleasure was clearly defined, Aiden began to guide her hips, increasing Mary's pleasure and clearly his own. Her muscles squeezed him firmly as she got closer. When she was balancing on the edge, Aiden stopped her. Mary whimpered in frustration. He chuckled and wrapped one arm around her, holding her against his chest while he turned her onto her back. 

Aiden moved back just enough to allow his mouth to find hers. Even the small movement made Mary squirm and whimper with need. He didn't make her wait long. He moved with move intensity than she had, but not with the sometimes painful insistence that marked their previous encounters. The waves of pleasure that washed over Mary made the whole world seem to throb in time with her heartbeat, but Aiden didn't pause. He held her legs open wider, taking advantage of the contractions of her inner muscles. His ragged growls and the way his wings trembled reached the edge of her floating consciousness. He was close. His movements were quickly pushing her toward the edge again and Mary fell into the pleasure without reservation. Her tensely quivering muscles finally drew his own release and the loud roar that always accompanied it.

Mary felt him retreat from her and she whimpered, not ready for the separation. He kissed her lightly and then retreated completely. She curled up on her side, her eyes closed, her knees drawn up comfortably. The thought of taking a shower when the bliss that surrounded her dissipated, but that seemed a long way off. As usual, Aiden seemed to read her mind. Before he returned to bed, he turned the shower on.

*~*~*~*~*~*

On Friday night, Nigel arrived right around dinner time with a folder and an air of excitement. He refused to tell her what he had brought with him, but it was clear that he was bursting to tell her something. All through dinner, she and Caroline both tried to draw it out of him, but he staunchly refused to say anything until Aiden was there too. He did assure her that there was nothing wrong though. That made it even harder to wait. 

After dinner, Caroline excused herself and Mary and Nigel moved into the library. He had coffee, she had a cup Aiden's tea. She made a mental note to tell Aiden that he would need more of those herbs soon. Aiden joined them at a little after eight.

"Now will you tell us?" Mary asked. She knew she sounded like a child asking for a present, but in a way, that's how she felt. Aiden was immediately concerned. Nigel read his expression at the same moment Mary did.

"This is something good." He said quickly. "Or at least, very interesting. You both remember the blood and DNA samples I took from both of you a few weeks ago?"

"Of course." Aiden said. His hand was over Mary's wrist again. She wondered if was simply his need to have contact with her, or if there was something more possessive in it.

"I got the results back." He held up the folder. "A friend of mine runs a private laboratory. He processed the samples personally and won't share the results with anyone until you're ready."

"How can you be so sure?" Mary asked, suddenly terrified.

"I bound him, but even if I hadn't I trust him completely." Nigel said simply. Binding was something Mary had read about, but she had never tried it. In theory, it meant that any person or animal could be stopped from doing anything if the will of the magician was properly directed. It seemed a little too easy to Mary.

"Why do you have such trust in this man?" Aiden asked.

"I've never known him since I was a child and I've never met a more honest, forthright person. He swore to me he wouldn't say a word until we were ready, and beyond that, he agreed to the binding. There is another reason I chose him though. Mary, you remember I asked about your blood type?"

"Yes." 

"Yours is the third sample he's seen with that particular anomaly. He told me about the other two, but I didn't think much of it at the time." Nigel was getting more excited and speaking more quickly. "Blood typing comes down to the presence or absence of certain antibodies in the blood plasma and antigens on the surface of red blood cells. A person with type A blood has A antigens on the cells and B antibodies in the plasma. You have A antigens on your blood cells, but you also have another antigen no one has ever seen before. Because Aiden has it too, we're tentatively calling it G. There are a few other differences too, but those are the major ones." Nigel looked positively victorious. Mary looked at Aiden and saw that he was just as confused as she was.

"Okay. So what does all that mean?" Mary asked.

"Forgive me." Nigel's face was flushed with excitement. "It means that your blood, and the blood of these two other people, is more closely related to gargoyle blood than human blood."

"How can that be?" She asked.

"Mary's parents were both human." Aiden said.

"For the others, I would put it down to genetic mutation." Nigel was calming down again. Mary moved to refill his coffee cup, Aiden released her wrist as soon as she moved and grasped it lightly again when she sat down. She decided he needed the contact. Nigel took a long swallow before continuing. "In Mary though, that would be a very convenient mutation. I tend to think there was something else directing it, but I have no idea who would have had the power to set something like that in motion."

"So this unusual blood type is why Mary was able to become pregnant with my child?" Aiden asked.

"That's a part of it." Nigel answered. "The DNA samples provided the other piece of that puzzle. Genetically, the chimpanzee was the closest human relative on Earth."

"Was?" Mary asked.

"Was." Nigel said firmly. "We share about ninety-eight percent of our genetic material with chimps. We share approximately 99.2 percent with Aiden. Again, Mary shares a bit more, either through spontaneous mutation or guided mutation. I still see it as an incredibly rare thing that she conceived at all, but everything seemed set up for it from the time she was born."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Even though Nigel had been reassuring, Aiden still wasn't completely comfortable with Mary's plan to wake Esme. Mary was equally determined to go ahead with the planned attempt. She still had occasional nausea when she didn't eat properly, but the crushing exhaustion was finally abating. Either that or she was getting used to it. She hadn't had any spells of dizziness since those first weeks. She knew that might change at any time though. That made going forward even more important to her.

During that week, Mary started to spend a great deal of time in the secret library. She didn't plan to do anything different than she had the first time when they moved the stone, but she was curious to see if there was any information about how her pregnancy might affect aggregation. It seemed to affect most other aspects of her life, including control of her abilities, so it only made sense that it would have some affect on aggregation as well. 

Finding that information proved to be much more difficult than she anticipated. She hadn't had time to read every single book in the large room, but one thing that she had noticed about everything that she had read was that they would reference each other heavily. Gryston made reference to Jerreth, Kelvan, Dawes and Myrian in the same sentence. She began with the books she knew and worked her way, through the references, to the ones that she was unfamiliar with.

No matter what approach she took though, nothing seemed to work. She found information on illness, injury, mental difficulties, emotion upset and marital discord, but there was nothing on pregnancy. At least not that she had found. 




Heart of Stone Ch. 13



Mary was noticing something else about being in the library, too. She got the distinct impression that she was being watched. She had felt it before from time to time, but she had attributed it to an overactive imagination. She was, after all, still becoming accustomed to spending time in secret rooms to learn about something that most people didn't believe existed. Taking the books upstairs had never occurred to her though. She felt like they were there for a reason. This watching was different. It was more intense, and almost constant. She noticed it was worse when she was in front of the portrait. Something about that gnawed at her.

The day before the meeting, Mary was sitting at one of the long tables with a small stack of books one either side of her. She took one from the pile on the left, flipped through the pages and closed it in frustration. She glanced up at the painting again. In all the months she had been coming down to the library she had always seen it as part of the background, rather like the paintings in the rest of the Hall. Still, it was a very grand adornment for a strictly utilitarian space. Not to mention the fact that even Mary knew that basements and other spaces that were prone to dampness weren't the best environments for paintings. She knew this room was a little different because of the protection spells someone had put on it, but the more she thought about it, the stranger it seemed.

Mary approached the painting with cautious curiosity. Her caution didn't really make a great deal of sense. It was only a painting. It wasn't as if it was going to spring off the wall and attack her. As Mary drew closer, she noticed that the background of this painting was every bit as detailed as the portrait of the twins, but the location was different. She was surprised to find it familiar.

Even though the gentleman in the foreground was dressed as though he hailed from a far more remote century, the background was most definitely the twins' sitting room, with a much smaller and less detailed rendition of their portrait over the fireplace. The pose made it clear that it was most certainly them. Mary sat down and stared at the painting. There were no pages being studied, as there were in the twins' painting, but she got the distinct impression that the connection wasn't a coincidence. She tried to take the painting down off the wall, but found it was far heavier than it looked. There was also the distinct feeling of a strong enchantment. She sat down again and waited for Aiden. She knew she wouldn't have to wait long, he was probably already up.

"Child?" She heard him call from the top of the stairs.

"Yes, down here." She called back. He appeared in the doorway a few minutes later, carrying a shawl for her. Since the weather had turned cooler in the evenings, he had become obsessed with her catching a chill. She hugged him close and let him wrap the shawl around her shoulders.

"You are spending far too much time down here." He murmured.

"I was looking for something." She answered, her body pressed against his.

"Have you found it?" His hands stroked her back.

"I don't know yet. Can you take that painting down for me?" She hadn't unwrapped her arms from around his waist yet. His wings sheltered her.

"Why?" She heard curiosity in his voice.

"I can't really explain it. Remember that thoughtform that was in the painting of the twins?" Aiden's hands stroked her back.

"Yes." She felt him raise his head, presumably to look at the painting. "That cannot be." He murmured.

"What can't?" Mary stepped back, letting him approach the painting more closely.

"This painting was in that one. This one must have been painted first, but the twins are in this one as well." Mary walked closer to him, looking closely at the picture. "There is something odd about all of this." 

"Maybe this is the 'Watcher in the Knowledge'." She craned her neck to see if there were any painted out messages on this canvas, but saw nothing out of the ordinary.

"How could it be? There is no message." She could tell from the way he was moving that he was looking for the hidden text as well.

"That's why I wanted you to take it down. It's heavier than it should be, or I would do it myself." He looked at her curiously. "Nothing says the message has to be on the front."

"You may be right about that," He looked appraisingly at the portrait. "But we will examine it upstairs." Mary laughed.

"Whatever you like." She kissed his chest lightly and then stepped out of his way. Aiden groaned softy as he lifted the painting. He stepped closer to the wall, getting a better grip and position.

"You are right, this is much heavier than the other paintings in the house." He started toward the stairs. 

"Let me help you get that upstairs." Mary trotted ahead of him.

"Nigel said you were not to lift anything." He held the painting out of Mary's reach.

"Nigel said I wasn't supposed to lift anything over thirty pounds, helping you guide a painting up the stairs -"

"I can manage, child. I would prefer it if you would walk ahead of me though. Something inside of this is shifting, and I do not wish to lose my balance with you behind me." Mary had never seen him lose his balance. His tail gave him stability in the air and on the ground. She didn't argue though. Mary climbed the stairs and watched as he ascended. 

As Aiden emerged into the brighter light of the entry, she could see that the painting was more than just a canvas on a frame. There was a box-like structure on the back of it. He took the painting into the library and set it on the floor, propped against the sofa with the back facing outward. It was covered in tightly stretched old fabric, but it was clearly covering a box that was nearly two feet high, two feet wide and six inches deep.

Mary took a pair of sharp scissors out of her embroidery basket and started picking at the edges of the fabric.

"Allow me." Aiden sliced through it with one talon.

"I'll never get used to that." She laughed and tore the fabric back, revealing a metal box. Mary wasn't sure what the box was made out of, but she could tell that it was very old. She was fairly certain that the enchantment was keeping the box in such good condition. The small keyhole on the lefthand side that was surrounded by an engraved escutcheon. Mary recognized a the letter "B" and something that looked like a collection of random marks. There were two heavy bands of metal that held the two halves of the container together on either side of the keyhole. They seemed to be part of the locking mechanism.

"Aiden, is that a thoughtform?" It didn't have the circular pattern, but the markings seemed very deliberate. He moved closer.

"No. It is a name." He rubbed at the metal and leaned closer. Mary took a small flashlight and the heavy ring of keys out of her desk. She sat on the floor and handed him the light. The small flashlight was awkward in his hand, so he handed it back to her and sat down next to her. "Hold it for me, child."

She let him move her hand to the angle he wanted.

"Whose name is it?" She asked excitedly.

"Garrick, son of Jereg." He spoke softly. 

"Is that someone you know?" Mary asked when explanation was not forthcoming.

"He is my father's grandfather, one of my clan's greatest leaders. There are those who said he had the gift of prophecy, but there are many stories about leaders that are exaggerated."

"Did you know him?" Mary lowered the light and leaned closer to Aiden. He smiled and pulled her closer with one of his wings.

"No, child. His time was over long before mine began. I grew up hearing stories about him though. Whoever made this box wanted to be certain that the link between my clan and your family was clear." He moved the box and painting closer. "Though if you do not have a key I am not certain we will be able to open it. It is very well made."

"Couldn't we just force those bands?" Mary was already searching through they keys to see if any even had potential.

"We could try, but I have seen containers like this before. The mechanical workings are more complex than they would appear. When these bands are released with a key, an internal mechanism is triggered, allowing the box to open. If they are cut or forced, the second mechanism does not release, and another further secures the box. If we cannot find a key, the secret may remain hidden." He tugged on the box and separated it from the painting. Mary took the much lighter canvas and set it aside. Aiden made a closer inspection of the box. He found no further engravings or any other obvious mechanisms. Even the hinges -- if there were any -- were inside the box.

Mary found three keys that might fit in the small keyhole. One looked far too new, but she decided to try it anyway. Before she put the first one in the lock though, she hesitated.

"Trying the wrong key won't make it impossible to open, will it?" She asked.

"I do not know. Is there more than one that might fit?" She showed him the three keys, and he agreed that the one she was going to try was the most likely candidate.

She put it carefully in the lock again, but it wouldn't go in. She tried the next one and found that it slid all the way in. She looked at Aiden and turned the key slowly. It resisted at first, then it turned. The first band opened, then the second. Aiden moved them carefully and then opened the lid.

"Mary?" Caroline came in. "What's that?" She noticed that Aiden paused. He trusted Caroline and always enjoyed her company, but Mary got the impression that he didn't want to reveal the contents to anyone else just yet.

"Something I found in the downstairs library." Mary said.

"Oh." She was clearly curious, but she didn't press the matter. "Anyway, I came in for my knitting. Did I tell you that Mrs. Corley at that little boutique in the village is selling my children's sweaters?" She crossed the room to get the large bag.

"No! That's terrific." Mary was genuinely pleased.

"Thanks." She blushed. Caroline had told Mary that she was often picked on for her love of knitting. "It's just consignment for now, but she's sold four of them already. I'm off to my knitting circle. Have a good night."

"You too." Mary loved having Caroline there, but she knew her friend needed to feel as though she had a purpose. Mary hoped this would give her a push in that direction. As soon as the door was closed behind Caroline, Aiden started to open the lid again. 

This time, there were no interruptions. Mary and Aiden found a clearly old, but well preserved leather-bound volume that was only slightly smaller than the box that held it. Aiden reached in, but found his fingers were too large to fit into the small spaces around the book. Mary's hands fit. She lifted it out of box and opened the cover. Inside was a thick packet of folded pages wrapped in another piece of parchment. On the outside, written in a fine hand, was 'The Untrained Beeson Daughter'. The first heavy page of the book was blank, but on the next page there was a thoughtform. Aiden took the book, Mary took the letter. 

Both began to read. 

*

 Author's Note: Information on blood typing was obtained from nobelprize.org.



Heart of Stone Ch. 14



Author's Note: Because of the age of the document that Mary finds, technically it should be written in Old English (the Anglo-Saxon language). I hope you will all forgive me for choosing expedience over accuracy in this instance. psyche b.

14. Awakenings

Mary unfolded the pages and realized that the large, irregular sheets had been folded several times. The packet wasn't nearly as thick as she had thought in the beginning. The writer had a large, flowing hand that was accented with flourishes. It was difficult to read at first, but once she got the rhythm of it, she found she was quickly absorbed in the words of her ancestor.

"As I sit here, considering what to write in this missive, I find that I am at a loss for words. The world as I know it is disintegrating around me. Each day, another small part of it is gone, and there is nothing my close associates and I can do to stop it. We've tried all we know to change the course of things, but if we are honest with ourselves, we know that it has all been in vain.

I know nothing about you, Descendant, other than the fact that you are female, that you have been somehow separated from the rest of the family and you have received no formal training. For all of that, I am sorry. The fact that you are reading this letter at all means that you have made great strides on your own. That is no small accomplishment, and I commend you for it. It means that you are indeed as strong as we all believe you will be. You will need every ounce of that strength before the world is put right again. I can only hope that you will not doubt yourself. Doubt -- even for a moment -- will have the most dire consequences.

The book that you are holding was written by Garrick, current leader of the K'lok'ji clan of gargoyles. They have stood shoulder to shoulder with our family since long before either Garrick or I were born. It is my dearest wish that they continue to do so long after I am dust. It will take your intervention to make that possible.

Unless I am very wrong, you will not be able to read what is written in the book. I cannot read it and I have had the benefit of years with Garrick and the others as my tutors. The gargoyle language is beautiful, but very complex. It is so closely entwined with the spoken component of the language, we simply cannot produce most of the sounds so understanding the written form well is simply beyond us. Garrick shared the substance of it with me. 

First, I must begin by telling you that Garrick sees the future almost as clearly as he sees the present. He downplays this ability to his own kind, because there are factions that would treat such a gift as weakness. Their community is segmented enough with all that is happening. It would be unfair to the others in his clan to add the burden of further internal strife. He is wise enough to know that the message must be conveyed, so he has written in secret for months. While he was writing, I had the box that would hold the book constructed. It was a feat of pure genius on the part of craftsman. I have no doubt that the book and this letter will reach you intact, despite the intervening centuries. 

I know that I must tell you what's in the book. That is the whole point of writing this letter -- the whole point of preserving it so carefully. The words are difficult for me to write. I don't know anything about your time, I can only assume that the idea of propriety has changed. It has changed from my father's time, so I'm certain that as centuries pass things that are undreamed of liberties will be considered commonplace. I hope you will pardon the skittishness of an old man.

Even though gargoyles and humans have lived side by side, they have never gotten any closer. It has always been against the most deeply held beliefs of both cultures that there be no intermingling of the bloodlines. There have been a few who were curious of course, we are both curious creatures. The result in those situations has always been dire, for both parties involved. 

That prohibition must end with you.

I realize the thought of coupling with a non-human creature must be disgusting to you. As I sit here, the thought of sacrificing a member of my family, even one that has not been born yet raises the ire of the patriarch in me. Garrick assures me that there is no other way, and he has never misrepresented anything to me in the past. I must trust him in this matter as well.

I cannot assure you that you will survive the birth of the child. I cannot assure you that creating that child will be a simple matter. All Garrick is able to tell me is that this pairing must happen between an untrained female of my line and a male of his line.

I can only hope, Descendant, that you will not run screaming from this place. It is a terrible burden to place on young shoulders, especially young female shoulders, but it is my dearest wish that you call upon the strength of your forebearers to bring back the proper order of things once again. If you cannot, then all is lost."

The letter went on to talk about magic and the role it would play, as well as the Beeson ability to collect and direct the will of others. Those were the things she knew. She reread the first part of the letter again and then sat up. She groaned a little at the sharp twinge in her back. The sound of pain made Aiden look up at her.

"Mary?" There was concern in his face. She noticed he had gotten about halfway through the book.

"I was hunched over for too long, that's all." The words in the letter stirred an untoward nervousness in her. Aiden was the same as he always was. He got up and helped her to her feet. "Did you know?" She had to ask the question, or it would have chewed away at her sanity.

"About Garrick's prediction?" Aiden looked surprised that she would ask.

"Yes."

"No, child." He stroked her cheek then sat in his chair. Mary didn't resist when he guided her to straddle his lap. "In fact, from his writings I think he expected that you would find the book before you woke me. The book is clear that the mating is necessary, but he writes that I am to touch you no more than I must to create a child, so that I do not mistake that intimacy for love or affection."

"The letter assumes that I would find the idea of being with you disgusting." She smiled a bit and rested against his broad chest. His knuckles gently worked the knotted spot in her back.

"I think our ancestors were the product of their times." Mary whimpered softly when he found a tender spot. One arm held her still, the other worked at the spot until she relaxed against him. "I do not think that either of them envisioned a true mating between us because the concept was so unimaginable to them."

"Maybe. I think I'm glad I didn't find the book until after though." She sighed and shivered with pleasure when he raked his talons down her back lightly. 

"Why?" His deadly talons continued to move lightly.

"Because I think it would have made it harder to get to know you. I would have been more focused on what I was supposed to do, rather than just enjoying my time with you and letting things develop." Mary closed her eyes and let herself get lost in the relaxation and his scent.

"Would you have told me?" She could feel the rumble of his voice almost as much as she heard it.

"I don't know. What would I have said? 'Gargoyle huh? Nice to meet you, we're supposed to have a baby.'?" Aiden's laughter shook Mary's body, the spasms of her own laughter were lost in it.

"Somehow I cannot imagine you saying those words to me, or to anyone else." He kissed her softly. 

"Well, maybe you're right about that." She smiled and curled closer. "Still, this find might make the rest of my pregnancy a little less challenging."

"How so?" 

"Had you ever heard of a prophecy involving a mating before?" She asked.

"No."

"Robbie has. He mentioned it that first time he and Andy came over here. Apparently, no one had been able to find the document so it became kind of a legend."

"I see, you wish to tell them tomorrow evening?" He asked. Mary shrugged.

"I certainly can't hide it forever, or even for much longer." She sighed. "Nothing fits right anymore. I think I can get away with just saying I've gained weight for a little while, but at some point it's going to become obvious. That'll probably be sooner rather than later, according to Nigel."

Aiden was silent, his hands moved in thoughtful little circles on her lower back.

"Do not tell them until I join you." He said finally.

"I wouldn't dream of it." She kissed his shoulder lightly. "So is that all that's in the book?"

"No. There is a great deal of history as well. Garrick recorded reactions in minute detail. Factions that formed within our clan, as well as those that he knew of in other clans. He also included a more detailed history of our clan. He wanted our child to know his history, in case the stories did not survive in any other form."

"Let me down for a second." Mary slid off of his lap and picked up the letter. She searched until she found the name of Aiden's clan. She sat back down and pointed it out to him. "How do you pronounce that?" Aiden thought for a moment.

"I do not know. I have never seen it written in your language. I can tell you how we pronounce it though." What followed were a series of growls with subtle intonations that were punctuated by soft clicks of his tongue. Mary looked at the page and tried to line the letters up with the sounds Aiden had just made. They didn't fit very well, but she wasn't sure how she would have spelled it any differently. Mary tried to repeat what he'd said, but failed miserably. Aiden chuckled and kissed the top of her head. 

"May I read the letter?" He asked.

"Sure. I need a snack anyway." She handed it to him and got up again. "Want anything?"

"Are there any apples?"

"I'll check. If there are, how many do you want?"

"Six." He answered. His eyes were already beginning to scan the first page. Mary wondered how to keep him in apples without buying them by the bushel.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Veronica was first to arrive for the gathering. Mary wasn't really surprised by that, she had learned that Veronica always arrived first and left last. Mary found she looked forward to spending time with the older woman. Since Caroline had agreed to see to all the preparations, Mary had the free time to spend entertaining. They sat in the sun-soaked conservatory with needlework and a pot of tea.

Veronica knew everyone who was worth knowing and she always had the most scandalous gossip to share. At first, that had bothered Mary, but she quickly realized that Veronica only talked about people she didn't like. She had never met most of the people Veronica mentioned, but listening was rather like watching a soap opera; once you learned the names of the characters, it was easy to become absorbed. She found herself wondering if Alistair Nesbitt would ever find out that his wife was having an affair with another woman, or if Jarrod Ellison would manage to keep two mistresses satisfied and secret -- from his wife and from each other.

"So, have you talked about names yet?" Veronica asked casually. Mary tried not to react like someone had poured icewater down her back. 

"Names?" She asked.

"You're pregnant. Is it too soon to think about names?" Veronica's gaze was direct. Mary knew denying it wouldn't do any good, but she found that she was at a loss for words.

"How did you know?" She asked when she found her voice.

"I've had four children and those children have given me fifteen grandchildren between them." She smiled a little. "You've gained a bit of weight and you have a glow."

"Is it obvious?" Mary blushed a little. She thought the casual, teal-colored empire-waist dress she had chosen for the evening hid everything quite nicely. It was entirely possible that was just wishful thinking.

"To me, but I don't think it will be to anyone else. You're planning to keep it from the others?" She seemed curious about that.

"Some of them already know. Caroline knows because she lives here. Nigel knows because he's my doctor, and Aiden knows," Mary took a deep breath. "Because it's his baby."

"I knew it!" Veronica smiled. For a moment, Mary was terrified. Veronica read her expression and continued on quickly. "The first night we all met him, I noticed how the two of you were looking at each other. One doesn't need magic to see when a couple truly cares for one another. It's a beautiful thing, no matter what they look like on the outside."

"Thanks." Mary smiled. "I worry the others won't be as accepting."

"So what if they aren't?" She looked indignant at the very thought of anyone rejecting the child. "What are they going to do, kick you out?"

*~*~*~*~*~*

Maureen and Joanna were beginning to clear the dessert dishes away, Mary knew the others were waiting for a signal from her to leave the table. She hesitated to give it. At least while they were all here, she had their attention. This gathering was just group members, which made things considerably easier. When Maureen returned to the dining room she bent down to whisper in Mary's ear. 

"Mr. Aiden is back. Do you want him to wait on the patio?"

"No. Ask him to go into the conservatory with everything. He'll know what 'everything' I mean." She spoke in a quiet voice.

Quentin was looking at her curiously, but he kept his questions to himself for the moment.

"If everyone will follow me into the conservatory, there's something we need to discuss before we begin." She got up and everyone else followed obediently. She could hear them speculating about what this topic of discussion was, but she held her tongue. 

"Mary," Robbie had joined her at her elbow while she had been in her own little world. "Do you intend to go ahead with waking Esme? If not, you really should have told them at dinner."

"We'll go ahead, with a short delay." She smiled. When they entered the large glassed-in room, Aiden was standing in front of one of the side tables. She hadn't considered the fact that he wouldn't have a place to put the book in there. The table looked haphazard, but it made as good a stand as any. She walked over to him, letting the others get coffee and find a place to sit. The light was dimmer than it had been earlier in the day, but the room still had a cozy glow. She hoped that would inspire calm in her guests.

"You are certain about this, child?" He murmured. She could tell it was difficult for him not to reach out and touch her. It was just as hard for her not to touch him.

"Yes." She tried to sound confident, but the concern in his eyes told her that she had failed. She turned to the assembled group, and found a chair closest to the book.

"I thought we were going to attempt to wake Esme." Alex emphasized the word attempt.

"We are going to wake Esme tonight, and there are a few things that Aiden wants to go over to maintain everyone's safety." There were a few nervous looks at that announcement. She thought there would be. "Before that though, something has happened that's of interest to everyone in this room. Robbie, do you remember the first time you and Andy came to the Hall to meet me? You told me about a document that Cyril Beeson claimed to have found."

"Must we ALL be involved in this trip down memory lane?" Stuart could manage to sound perfectly bored with any situation.

"Yes." Aiden answered sharply. He moved to stand behind Mary.

"Yes, of course I remember." Robbie was looking at her curiously. "Why?"

"I found it." She said.

"You couldn't have!" Andy said. "The thing is a myth, and has been from the beginning. Cyril only made it up to sound important."

"What is this document anyway?" Gordon asked. He was clearly curious. Robbie explained quickly.

"I'll admit, it's fascinating stuff, but even if you have found it, how does that affect tonight?" He said, after the explanation.

"She hasn't found anything!" Andy waved dismissively. "She's stalling because she can't wake Esme."

"Try something new and shut up." Ramona said.

"Agreed." David said. "At least let Mary finish."

"It affects tonight because Cyril was wrong." Mary didn't give anyone else a chance to chime in. 

"What part of it was wrong, Mary?" Mary could see understanding dawning in his face, but Mary's mouth went dry at the thought of explaining it with so many people looking at her. Aiden laid his hand on her shoulder, she glanced at him and gripped his hand.

"Mary has told me that Cyril read the document to mean that my ancestor, Garrick, suggested a mating between a gargoyle and a human female before the trouble began." Aiden explained. All eyes were on their clasped hands. "Because humans have never mastered the gargoyle language, he got the timing entirely wrong. Garrick's actual prophecy was that the first untrained Beeson daughter would mate with the last of Garrick's descendants."

"You mean you two are going to-" Ron looked horrified, so did Alex. "Just because of some old paper?"

"It's not like that." Mary said. "Aiden and I were mated long before I found the book."

"Book?" Robbie asked.

"The one on the table was written by Garrick and holds the most detailed version of the prophecy. The letter was in it, although it was still sealed, so I doubt Cyril read it. That's why he got it so wrong." Mary answered.

"There is more." Aiden spoke before anyone else could. "Mary is carrying my child. We share this at all because she is not certain what will happen she tries to wake Esme this evening. She wants you all to be prepared." The collective gasp seemed to draw all the air out of the room.

"Congratulations." Quentin was the first to recover. She could tell he meant his congratulations.

"Are you INSANE?" Ron looked disgusted. He got up. "Maybe the rest of you want to sit here while a monster's whore-" Nigel and Gordon were both on their feet. Mary gripped Aiden's hand harder.

"You're going to apologize for that." Nigel said.

"And the two of you are going to compel that apology?" He crossed his arms. Aiden pulled his hand out of Mary's.

"Aiden-" Mary's voice was almost pleading. He didn't listen. The way his tail flicked from side to side as he crossed the room, his wings were raised and partially spread making him look even larger than he was. Mary knew he was angry and fighting to control it. In the space of seconds, the men had chosen sides and the women made their way to Mary. She ignored them and started to follow Aiden.

"Mary." Veronica took her arm. "They'll work it out for themselves."

"But, Aiden-" She gestured toward the shouting men.

"I don't see Aiden harming anyone." Veronica led her out onto the softly lit patio with the other women. "And even if he does, it won't be the first black eye or bloody nose that's happened at one of these things."

With the doors closed, she couldn't clearly hear what was going on, but it was clear that everyone was shouting. The others stood so that Mary had no choice but to keep her back to the doors.

"How far along are you?" Veronica asked. They sat down at one of the small, wrought iron tables.

"Nearly twelve weeks." Mary tried to manage a smile.

"Then your abilities should have made the adjustment." Ramona said. 

"For me the shift took about eight weeks." Veronica said. "In the beginning I felt like I had no control at all. It was maddening."

"I couldn't find anything about pregnancy in the library here." Mary knew the others would understand she didn't mean the upstairs library.

"That doesn't surprise me. No woman has ever written a widely accepted book about magic and no man has ever been pregnant." Caroline said.

"Nigel didn't tell you what to expect?" Ramona looked shocked.

"No, but I think he was more concerned with the basics at first." Mary blushed and managed a little smile. "It's kind of an unusual situation."




Heart of Stone Ch. 14



"Mary-" Ramona started.

"Ramona." Mary heard the warning tone in Veronica's voice, but Ramona was undeterred.

"I'm not saying there's anything WRONG with it." She said.

"But it's strange, and you're curious how it happened." Mary supplied.

"Yes." Ramona looked a little embarrassed.

"I don't know, how does it happen with anyone?" Mary was silent, trying to collect her thoughts. It was clear she had everyone's attention. She couldn't help but smile when she thought about her first days with Aiden though. "He listened to me, and made me laugh. He never treated me like I was strange or awkward, even when I felt that way. I always felt safe around him. Every night we just got closer, and the rest just seemed so natural. To other people, I know it must look strange."

"It's different, but you've made me jealous. I wish I could find someone to be all those things for me." Ramona smiled. She glanced past Mary's shoulder. "Looks like the men have calmed down."

"Funny how they have such a hard time with things." Caroline said.

"It's their fragile egos. Take those away and men would be perfectly rational human beings." Veronica answered. "Shall we go back in?"

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary sat down again. She scanned the room, looking for Ron among those examining the book and the letter. When she didn't find him, she got up to go look for him. Aiden stopped her. 

"Is Ron-" She was looking for the right words. "I mean, you didn't-"

"He deserved it." Aiden said. "But no, I did not injure him. I let him think that I was going to, though." He smiled slightly. 

"Thanks." She leaned against his arm. "I should have known you wouldn't hurt him."

"If he were one of my own kind, I would have. A male does not let such an insult against his mate pass without addressing it." He looked at her. "Are you feeling well? You look a bit pale."

"I think I just wasn't expecting so much drama." He stroked her cheek gently and Mary found herself wishing she could just disappear with him. "Lately everything seems to affect me so much more than it used to."

"Sit. Rest for awhile. I think the others would like some time to examine the documents. I know Ron needs time to collect himself." 

"You're right." She held onto his hand, but sat slowly. "Did you have Maureen make any of your tea?"

"No. Would you like some?"

"Yes, thank you." She smiled.

"Stay there." He found Caroline and spoke to her softly. She left the room and he returned to stand behind her. Nigel had noticed her return but stayed with the others who were looking at the book and the letter. When she was seated, he excused himself and sat next to her.

"Are you feeling alright?" He asked quietly. 

"I'm fine, I just wasn't expecting such a violent reaction." Maureen appeared a few minutes later with a cup of tea. Mary thanked her, and sipped it slowly.

"You're not in any sort of pain though? You're not lightheaded or nauseous?" He asked. Nigel had made it clear when he arrived that he thought waking Esme as planned was the right thing to do, but he was still concerned about how the stress of the attempt would affect her. She'd agreed to stop if she felt at all unwell and he'd promised to keep a close eye on her.

"No, nothing like that." The warm liquid was helping her relax. "I think I've just lead such a quiet life recently that any excitement at all throws me all off."

"Good." He smiled. "If you don't mind me asking, how did you find the book?"

"It was a painting in Robbie's house actually."

"The twins?"

"How did you know?" She asked.

"They're rather a legend, besides, we all know that their portrait was painted here at the Hall.  Ambrose tried to figure out the connection for years."

"You mean he didn't have any idea?" Mary was surprised. "If it was painted here, how could he not know?"

"He knew the twins were insistent. He liked them, so he agreed. He didn't consider the implications until later. We've all looked at that painting at one time or another though, there's nothing there." 

"You know about the symbol that was painted out?" Mary said.

"I'd heard there was something there, but I didn't know what it was. Was it something significant?" He asked.

"It was a thoughtform, like in the book. Aiden was only able to read a part of it though and what was there didn't make sense." She was relaxed again. "It wasn't until I started thinking about the painting in the library here that I put it together."

"There was a painting in the downstairs library?" He was surprised.

"Yes. I didn't give it a second thought until last night because it's always just seemed like a part of the place. As I was sitting there it struck me that it seemed strange for it to be down there. I looked at it for the first time, and noticed there was a tiny version of the painting of the twins in the corner, even though mine is clearly the older of the two. We found the book and pages in a box behind it." Mary noticed that people were starting to return to their seats. Ron had appeared again at some point and was hovering close by. Nigel noticed too, he excused himself and returned to where he had been sitting before. Ron approached cautiously, his eyes on Aiden.

"Mary, I'm sorry." He was pale and on the edge of trembling. Aiden squeezed her shoulder gently. She recognized what he meant by the touch immediately.

"For what?" Her eyes held his.

"For saying what I did. It was uncalled for and insulting." He looked as if would rather be anywhere else on the face of the earth. Aiden released the light pressure on her shoulder. Ron's eyes darted between Aiden and Mary. She remained silent for a moment, allowing him to squirm. She didn't want to tell him it was alright, but she needed him.

"Apology accepted." She said finally. He went back across the room and sat down again. Much as she wanted to see him squirm, she needed his focus and concentration.

"Child, I believe we should begin soon." Aiden spoke close to her ear. Mary nodded. She stood.

"I know some of you are still examining the letter and the book, but it's getting a bit late." Those who were still standing looked at her. "I'll make them available again tomorrow morning. For right now I'd appreciate it if you could take your seats again. Aiden will explain the rules and then we can begin." Mary sat down again. She waited until the group had quieted again. Some looked at her as they always did, others stared, a few looked mildly disgusted. She did her best to ignore the negative. 

"Mary has attempted to replicate the enchantment that allowed me to hear while in my frozen state, but we have no way of knowing if it worked." Aiden started. "If it did, Esme will wake with some understanding of what has happened. If not, she will likely look at all of you as a threat. I think it would be safest for everyone if we assume that is the position she will adopt."

"You mean, she might attack us?" Ramona asked. The fear in her face was obvious.

"This is precisely why I thought this was a bad idea." Andy said. "It's plainly dangerous."

"Bear in mind that when we were frozen, your kind was both our greatest ally and our greatest enemy. I will not allow her to harm anyone. Once she understands the truth of the situation, I don't think she will have any desire to strike out. To ensure everyone's safety though, as soon as Esme begins to wake you will all retreat to a safe distance."

"What's a safe distance?" Robbie asked.

"There's already an area marked out." Mary said. "Aiden tells me that waking isn't instantaneous, so we have a few minutes for me to stop the aggregation and to all move back."

"I will be before her when she wakes fully, so that I can explain what is happening." Aiden added.

"What makes you so sure she's going to listen to you?" Stuart asked.

"Mine was one of the most powerful of the clans in existence when we were frozen. Beyond that, her clan and mine have ties that go back through more generations than I can count. She will listen." Aiden said. "After she calms, I will begin to introduce all of you. First Mary, because she is my mate and this is her land. Then Caroline, because it was her family that protected Esme for so many centuries. Beyond that, you will all be introduced in the order of the hierarchy of the clans your families protected. Is that clear to everyone?"

There was a general murmur of agreement. Mary would have been surprised if anyone argued. Some of them might have been contentious, but they all valued their personal safety.

"We should get started then." Mary got up and opened the patio doors. "If you'll all follow the lights, just like you did the last time." She waited while everyone filed out and started down the path to the garden. Robbie lingered.

"Aiden, this may not be the right time to bring this up," He started. "But the historian in me is itching with curiosity." 

"When Esme is settled, I will translate the historical portions of the book for you." Aiden smiled. 

"There's more to it than just the history?" Mary walked ahead of Robbie and Aiden, halfway listening to their conversation, halfway concentrating on what she was about to do.

"It contains Garrick's prophecy. Some of that I will share, some is more personal." He answered.

"Is the tone similar to the letter?" Robbie asked.

"Yes it is." Aiden nodded. "Though my ancestor was much more specific than Mary's. My kind have always been more open about certain physical realities. While I understand why Garrick included it, I do not wish to share it."

"I understand completely. I appreciate whatever you decide to share with me." Robbie took his place next to Mary. She was facing Esme. The others were standing in a circle in the same order they were in when they practiced on the rock. Everyone looked at Mary in nervous anticipation. She glanced over her shoulder at Aiden. He smiled a bit. Mary stepped forward and placed her hands on Esme's wrist.

"Esme, we're going to try and wake you. I don't know if we'll succeed, but If not we'll keep trying until we do." Mary said. She stepped back and looked at the others. "Is everyone ready?"

"When you are." Quentin answered.

"That is our safe area to retreat to?" Andy asked, indicating a lighted space a few feet away. 

"Yes." Mary said.

"Why don't you just make us wear targets while your at it." He sniped. Mary heard several groans.

"It's not meant to be an air raid shelter." Veronica said.

"I just think that if we have to go running off-"

"No one asked you to go running off." Mary said calmly. "In fact, if you'd like to stay where you are, that's alright by me." Robbie smirked. 

"I think, what Andy is saying-" Stuart started.

"I know exactly what he's saying." Mary said. "The fact is that for Esme to wake after all this time will be a shock to her. All we want is to be out of the way until Aiden can calm her. Any other questions?"

"None at all." Ramona said.

"Good. We're going to do this like we did the last time." She took a deep breath. "Close your eyes and feel your will begin to gather." She watched as the others closed their eyes. She felt their concentration, but she focused on releasing the last of her own tension.

"Feel that will swelling in volume, ripening with energy. When it becomes too much to bear, let it travel down your arms, like a warm river of honey. There's nothing else in the world but that sensation." Their breathing deepened collectively. Mary concentrated on her own will, collected it, nurtured it until it was ready for the others. "When you're ready, bind that will to the will of the people next to you."

Slowly, each person reached out to the person next to them, palms facing out, contacting his or her neighbor on each side. Mary watched until she was the only one who needed to close a gap. She felt the surge when she contacted Robbie and David's hands. 

"Keep your energy flowing to your hands, but open your eyes." She waited until every pair of eyes she could see was on her. The spell that froze Esme surrounded her like a brick wall, and like a wall, if one wanted to go through it one had to look for the weakest point. Because Mary had experimented with waking Esme on her own, she knew precisely where the weakest point was. She focused the collective will of the group on that place, chipping away at the weakened ethereal mortar until her will broke through. The enchantment held together for a few seconds more, then dissolved completely.

Esme's skin began to look less like stone and more like living flesh. Mary released the will of the others as quickly as she could. 

"Child." Aiden said.

"Yes, I know." She answered. "Follow me everyone."

"You did it!" Caroline said. Her voice was low, but her excitement couldn't be concealed. There was a murmur of congratulations.

"I knew you could." Quentin grasped her hand.

"I couldn't have, without everyone else's help." Mary answered. When they turned, Aiden was standing in front of Esme. Her tail began to move, then her wings. She stood, her head moving back and forth, her posture suspicious, and ready to field an attack. Mary could just about hear Aiden speaking.

Esme wasn't as tall as Aiden, and she was much more slimly built. She wore a similar garment around her hips and something wrapped around her breasts as well. She had no hair, so it was easy to see that her ears were shaped differently from Aiden's. She also wore no rings on the side that Mary could see. As she turned, Mary could see that there were two in each eyebrow.

"Why doesn't he say something?" Ramona whispered.

"He is, in the gargoyle language." Robbie said. "She's just disoriented."

"I'm not surprised." Veronica answered. "I'm disoriented when I oversleep by an hour. I can't imagine what she must be feeling."

"She seems to be calming now." Quentin added. Esme did look much less defensive. Aiden wasn't speaking as quickly as he had been. He pointed to the curiously watching group, Esme looked curious as well.

"Mary." Aiden said.  All of a sudden Mary's heart was pounding. Robbie gripped her hand for a moment, and she walked forward. Covering the small expanse of dimly lit lawn seemed to take forever. As she walked, she could tell that Aiden was still explaining something, Mary could see nothing but warm curiosity in Esme's eyes. Even though she was shorter than Aiden, she was still six and half feet tall at least. Mary felt tiny standing between the two of them. Aiden put his hand on Mary's shoulder and said something to Esme. The female gargoyle looked at Mary curiously. She said something in her own language.

"She wishes to know if you are the Mary who has been speaking to her. The tone of your voice is familiar." Aiden translated.

"Yes." Mary nodded and smiled. "I'm so glad to finally meet you, in person."

Aiden translated, his thumb moved against the back of her neck softly. The gesture was not lost on Esme. She looked from Mary to Aiden and spoke again. He answered before translating for Mary.

"She asks if you are the mate of my heart, or only my mate by prophecy. I told her that you are both, but first you are the one I chose." Mary blushed. "And she asks how long the child has been growing."

"Nearly twelve weeks. How did you know?" Mary asked. She waited for the translation. Being this close to Esme, even in dim light she could see that the female gargoyle was much older than Aiden. She felt guilty that she had been so jealous in the beginning.

"She has been a healer for many years. The posture of a female changes when she is with child, even very early on. She wants to know if the family her clan guarded is still living." Aiden said.

"Did you explain about-?" Mary asked.

"Not yet, but I will. Ask Caroline to come over." Mary nodded and stepped away from Aiden. She walked toward the rest of the gathered group and motioned for Caroline.

One by one the rest of the group came forward to be introduced. By the time the last introduction was made, Esme was able to speak a few words of English. She was also very hungry. Aiden asked Robbie to walk Mary back to the house, while he hunted with Esme. Mary wasn't sure why he thought she needed an escort just to go back home, but she accepted Robbie's arm anyway. Exhaustion was starting to push past the excitement of the evening.



Heart of Stone Ch. 15



15. The Day After

The walk back to the house bubbled over with hopeful feelings and discussions for the future. When they returned, Maureen and Joanna were waiting with champagne in Mary's finest crystal. The book and letter had been cleared away and the furniture put back in place. A light buffet was set up.

"How did you know?" Mary asked Maureen. She had planned for a celebration, but she didn't think it would be waiting for them when they returned.

"No one makes that much jolly noise when things don't go right." The housekeeper smiled. "Besides, we knew you could do it." Joanna came over with one more glass on her tray. She offered it to Mary.

"I can't. It's alcoholic." She laughed.

"It is not either." Joanna countered with a grin. "It's nothing but sparkling apple cider. This celebration is in your honor, we couldn't let you stand here empty-handed." Mary laughed and took the cut crystal flute.

"If I could have everyone's attention for just a minute please." Mary began, then waited for there to be silence. "I just want to thank all of you. I know tonight has been full of surprises, but you were all able to put that aside long enough to accomplish a common purpose, and that means the world to me." She felt the tears rising in her eyes. "So tonight we celebrate. End of speech." She laughed and so did everyone else.

"We wouldn't be celebrating anything without you." Veronica said.

"Agreed." Quentin raised his glass. "To Mary, who has begun to quietly change the world."

"To Mary." The rest replied. She blushed but accepted their congratulations, then wandered over to the doors, her eyes on dim night outside the door. It was true that the world had changed forever, she just hadn't thought of it like that before. The changes were just a part of her life. With her pregnancy and now Esme's waking, they were rapidly approaching a point where the changes wouldn't be so easily concealed. She tried to push some of that out of the way for the moment. There would be a great deal of time to worry about that later. She was glad she wouldn't have to decide how to deal with it all on her own.

"Should you be drinking that?" Robbie asked. She wasn't sure how long he had been standing there, or how long she had been staring.

"It's apple cider." She smiled. "Look, I'm sorry I didn't tell you before-"

"Nonsense. You had every right to keep silent." He answered. "It is a private matter after all."

"I know." She sighed. "At first I didn't want to tell anyone because I worried something might happen. After, I was afraid how people would take it. I hadn't planned to say anything tonight either, but then I found the book."

"And it was easier to present it as something that had already happened than let people's imaginations travel when the implications of the prophecy came to light." He finished. She nodded. He put his arm around her shoulder and lead her to the sofa. She sat with him.

"That, and after the first time I really was worried about what might happen."

"Were you pregnant that first time too?" He asked.

"Yes, only I didn't know it. I thought I was just tired and overstressed. Now, at least I've been taking care of myself, but my abilities seem to be in overdrive sometimes. I had no idea if I would even be able to do the aggregation, much less maintain it for as long as I needed to. In a way that's why I was in the library, I was trying to find any information on pregnancy and aggregation. I couldn't find anything though." Robbie thought for a moment.

"Have you read Killian?" He asked.

"No, I don't think I've seen that name." She finished the last of the cider in her glass.

"I'm not surprised. Heloise Killian isn't exactly accepted by the establishment." He chuckled. "I think I have three of her books, I'll send them over to you. I don't know how much detail she goes into, but it might be useful."

"I appreciate that. Veronica told me the same thing though, that books written by women weren't accepted. Why is that?"

"That's a very large question." He thought for a minute. "I think the best answer is that our segment of the world is still a part of the world. We get caught up in whatever nonsense is going on around us. Some of those sources are so old women were still considered property. As time went on, the older sources were so revered that more modern ideas were rejected. Most of your books are relatively modern interpretations of much older sources. Would you like some more?" He pointed to her glass.

"Yes, I'll-"

"No no. I'll get it for you." He took her glass and walked over to Joanna. He put the two empty glasses on the maid's tray and spoke a few words to her. He took a full glass from Maureen and walked back to Mary. "She'll be back in a minute."

"If Killian's books aren't accepted, how come you have three of them?" Johanna walked through the crowd with Mary's glass. "Thank you."

"You're welcome, Miss." She made her way back into the group.

"Actually, according to my grandfather she wrote five books at least." Robbie sipped some of his champagne. "He was a collector of apocrypha. He gave no credence to any of it, but it was a curiosity for him. I agree that most of it is rubbish, but there are a few gems peppered in. Killian is one."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary woke up from her light doze when Aiden picked her up. Tired as she was when she left the party, Mary hadn't been able to fall asleep in bed. The last thing she remembered was being stretched out on the sofa in her suite. She moaned softly.

"What were you doing in there, Child?" He laid her in bed and undressed. Suddenly the thought of feeling his skin next to hers was all she wanted in the world. Mary pulled her nightgown over her head and got under the covers. When he was holding her, all of her tension melted away.

"I tried sleeping in here, but I'm not used to falling asleep without you." She kissed him softly.

"Esme had a great many questions, and I wanted to make sure she knew where she could safely go." His hands moved lightly over her back. Mary arched against him.

"I understand why you were gone, I just missed you." She smiled at him. "I'm not used to it yet."

"I would like to tell you that there will not be a difference, but that would not be the truth." His fingers floated lightly over her body. From the way he was touching her, Mary could tell that he'd missed her too. 

"Just don't disappear completely." Her body molded to his. "I need you."

"And I need you, Child." He kissed her lightly, Mary twined her tongue with his.

"Where is Esme now?" Mary asked, her fingers traced the muscles on his back.

"Gathering herbs for her pharmacopia." His lips sucked softly at the side of her neck. 

"Your mother was a healer too, wasn't she?" Mary arched against him.

"Yes. In fact, I learned that Esme is a distant relative of mine."

"So she is from your mother's clan?" He turned so that she was laying on her side.

"Yes. Let me think of the relationship in terms you will understand." One hand stroked her thigh. "She is my mother's second cousin." He said finally. Mary had learned that central family relationships had the same names in the gargoyle culture, but as one got further out the titles changed. For the most part, she noticed that even extended family was thought of as much closer emotionally than the same relatives would be in human culture.

"What about the others?" She asked, her lips finding his again.

"I do not know yet." He placed her leg over his hip. Mary nuzzled the side of his neck. "In my heart, I wish to wake them all immediately, but I do not wish to wake them without a plan. I think it would be best if Esme were more comfortable in this time before any of the others are awakened. She will be able to help them acclimate." His tail started to tease Mary's lower lips. She gripped him more tightly.

"How long until she's comfortable? People will want to know-" She gasped when he fluttered his tail. "Aiden-" She moaned softly.

"I do not know. Human culture is not unknown to us, and she will learn your language fairly quickly. Beyond that I cannot say." His hands moved down her back. Mary's fingers caressed his thick shaft. She loved him completely, but there were moments when his size still made her hesitate. He pushed her onto her back and moved on top of her.

"I'm not ready." There was a little tremor in her voice. Hesitant as she was, submitting to him was second nature to her. She opened herself to him completely, as she always did. One knuckle gently caressed and explored her tenderest places, she moaned and lifted her hips.

"Your body says differently." He kissed her gently. His weight rested on one arm, his knuckle found and teased the firm little nub hidden in her folds. Mary moaned deeply and started to squirm under him. "Relax." He whispered against her mouth.

He moved more slowly than usual, and within minutes Mary found that she needed him to be inside her. She wrapped her legs around his waist and he moved more quickly, with more force. She cried out, each firm movement bringing her closer. He rose up over her, his wings fluttered, his eyes closed. Mary shifted her hips slightly and she felt him reach even deeper inside her. She cried out, but the sound was lost in his moan. He leaned down close to her ear.

"More?" He whispered.

"Yes." She was barely able to form the word. 

She was so close to the edge, but even in this state, she could tell that he was close as well. He grasped her right leg at the knee and pushed it back further. He moved faster, with greater intensity. The sensation sent shock waves of pleasure through her body. She whimpered and screeched, her fingers digging into his muscled forearm as she rode the crest of the wave. Mary didn't know when his release came, but it seemed to happen within seconds of hers. He picked her up and held her close, his shaft still buried deep inside her.

Mary didn't know how long she stayed in a comfortable half-doze, but she knew that at some point she had tried to get up to shower. He kept her there, but brought a basin of water. After a half-hearted protest, she let him bathe her. Only moonlight streamed into the room, but Mary knew he could see her clearly. She was sure that was why these baths always took longer than a shower. He spent a great deal of time just looking at her. She closed her eyes, and a little tremor of pleasure coursed through her body. 

"Sleep, Child." Aiden whispered close to her ear. Mary tried to stay awake until he was finished at least, but the deep relaxation was too much to resist.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next morning, Mary came down later than she had planned to, and found the house empty for the most part. She stopped in the kitchen for a glass of juice before exploring further. She was beginning to think that everyone was gone, until she found Robbie in the sunroom.

"Good morning." Robbie set his paper aside and kissed her cheek lightly.

"I'm sorry to be so late. Did everyone leave?" She sat down with him.

"No. Veronica organized a walk around your gardens." He smiled.

"That sounds nice actually." Mary smiled. "You didn't want to go?"

"To be honest, I suggested she organize it so that I could have some time alone with you." He looked at her across the table.

"Oh?" She asked. For some reason, the way he said it made her nervous. He read her expression.

"It's nothing so clandestine. The rest of the group has been speculating all morning about what you plan to do in regard to the rest of the gargoyles. I didn't want them to come at you from all angles without you having some time to gather your thoughts." He looked at the glass of juice. "You really should eat something."

"I know, Maureen is bringing me something." She smiled a little. Mary was getting used to people trying to take care of her. "I appreciate you giving me some warning. How did Veronica ever get them out of the house though?"

"She played the nattering old lady until everyone gave in." He chuckled.

"Leave it to her." She smiled. Maureen came in carrying a plate of food, flatware and a pot of coffee on a tray. 

"You read my mind, Maureen." He said with a smile.

"I thought what you had might be getting cold." She set the plate down in front of Mary, and the coffee in front of Robbie. "Now you're certain chicken and spinach is what you want, Miss."

"Yes, that smells absolutely wonderful." Mary mixed the two together and took a bite. Normally, Mary hated cooked spinach, but at that moment it tasted so good.

"Do you need anymore cream or sugar or anything?" Maureen asked Robbie.

"Not a thing, thank you."

"Enjoy then." She shook her head a little and left. Robbie was smiling.

"I know it's weird." She said. "But my diet shifted recently."

"Perfectly understandable. When my sister was expecting, she put strawberry jam on everything. Meat, eggs, fish, it didn't matter." He laughed. "There were times her husband couldn't stand to eat with her."

"I think Maureen feels that way sometimes." Mary smiled. "What's your opinion about waking the other gargoyles?"

"I don't know." He sighed. "I've been thinking about it all morning and there don't seem to be many good options."

"Aiden was torn too. He told me he wanted to wake the others right away, but he wants Esme to get acclimated first." Mary sighed. "I don't even know logistically how it's going to work. People are spread out all over the countryside. The gargoyles themselves are all from different clans with all different alliances and animosities. Aiden can give me an order to wake them in and who should be present, but what happens then? Do we just leave and let the newly awakened one figure out the language and the culture from his or her hosts? It seems like it would be less stressful to have other gargoyles around, but I don't know how that would work out if the one with them is still learning him or herself. I know Aiden won't leave me alone. Plus, with each new one we wake, the circle of trusted people is going to have to widen." Robbie looked pensive.

"That leaves us open to a certain dark practitioner too." He said.

"How?" Mary asked.

"Your defenses here are ironclad. Anyone who's even remotely sensitive can feel it as soon as he or she steps onto the property. We're all defended, and with the gargoyles still frozen, that's probably enough because he doesn't want to draw attention to himself. Since that's changing, he's going to become even bolder. The rest of us can't structure an enchantment the way you can. We don't have the ability."

"And with them being awake again, it increases the danger for everyone." Mary said. He nodded.

"So the safest place for all of them is here, but getting them here would be an expensive little slice of Hell, not to mention the fact that they might not be able to live together." She continued. "Even if they could, I'm not sure I could feed all of them, or keep them all a secret. Then there's the baby. Nigel tells me it's likely I won't be able to deliver naturally. Even if I could I will still need to be in a hospital."

"Meaning we have limited time to make some very large decisions." He swallowed some more of his coffee.

"I don't think we can make any decisions at all without Aiden's input. Esme's too. Whatever is decided will affect both of them directly."

"I think you're right." He said. "Convincing some of the others of that might take a bit of doing."

"So we'll put on our persuasive faces." Mary smiled.

"I like your positive attitude." He laughed. 

"Well, it sounds good anyway." She smiled. "Are you able to stay on another night?"

"Of course." He said.

"What about the others?"

"Most if not all of them can probably arrange it. Would Aiden and Esme be willing to meet with us?"

"I'm sure Aiden would. Hopefully Esme will feel comfortable enough to as well. That coffee smells so good."

"Do you want some?" He smiled.

"Yes. But I'm not supposed to have caffeine." She laughed. "I didn't realize how much I loved my morning coffee until I couldn't have it anymore."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Robbie was right about people coming at her from all angles. Everyone seemed to have a different opinion of what should happen next, and none of them agreed with each other. She managed to brush it all aside and convince them that Aiden and Esme needed to be involved in the conversation too. Then she let Aiden know.

The day passed in fits and starts. Luckily, late in the afternoon, Nigel noticed her distress and insisted she take a nap. She protested leaving her guests, but Veronica assured that everyone could entertain themselves for a few hours. Mary didn't know if she would sleep, but a few hours away sounded like a slice of heaven. She stopped by the kitchen to make sure that preparations for dinner were going smoothly. Maureen just rolled her eyes and sent Mary off to bed.

Mary's worries about being unable to sleep were unfounded. She remembered closing her eyes at around four, and then nothing until Aiden pulled her into his arms at a little after six. For a few minutes, she simply snuggled against him, her mind waking slowly. Once it did, her eyes opened wide.

"Where's Esme?" Mary pulled the blanket around herself. She had fallen asleep in only her underwear. She didn't mind Aiden seeing her that way, but Esme was still a stranger.

"Hunting. I must join her soon, but I saw you in here and I could not resist holding you for a moment. You are well this evening?" She relaxed again.

"I'm fine. You know how tired I've been lately, I just needed a nap." She kissed him softly. "Will Esme come with you tonight?"

"Yes. I will have to speak for her, but the words will be hers." He caressed her back lightly.

"I'm glad. I want her to feel welcome here, but I'm not sure how to go about it." Mary shivered pleasantly.

"She knows, child. Besides, the more she hears your language, the more quickly she will learn it." He lightly massaged the back of her neck.

"I should get ready for dinner." She didn't move.

"I should join Esme." His stomach growled loudly. 

"And eat something." She laughed and moved out of his lap.

"That too." He kissed her, his mouth lingering against hers for a delicious moment. "Eat well, dear one."

"You too." She let him go reluctantly. After he left she started trying to find something appropriate to wear to dinner.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary would never have believed that Maureen and Joanna could pull together such a luscious meal for so many people with almost no notice. At least everyone seemed to be in a good mood as they made their way into the conservatory again. Aiden and Esme were already waiting. Aiden took Mary's hands and kissed her lightly. Someone behind her gasped. It had a decidedly male tone, but she didn't turn to see who it was. She didn't really care. Coffee and tea had been set up on the sideboard. Joanna came in as the group were serving themselves.

"Miss, will you be wanting any of your special tea?" She asked quietly.

"Not for me, thank you." Mary turned to Aiden. "What about you and Esme?"

"No, thank you." He asked Esme, but she shook her head. When Joanna left, Esme asked him something, from the way Aiden responded, Mary thought he might have been listing something. She sat down and decided to ask him later. Aiden sat to her right, and Esme sat on the other side of him. He hadn't told her if he had discussed the future with Esme, or what her opinions were if he had.

"I think we're about ready to start." Robbie said. The few people who hadn't sat down found empty places and gave him their attention. Mary was glad that someone else had taken over. She noticed that Aiden began to translate softly for Esme. "We all know that the events of last night were beyond description, but today we're faced with the future. There are ten more gargoyles who are still frozen. We know that we have the ability to wake them, but I think we all agree that we need a plan in place before we move forward."




Heart of Stone Ch. 15



"Why are they here?" Stuart looked at Aiden and Esme.

"Because-" Mary started.

"What kind of a ridiculous question is that?" Veronica asked.

"I don't think it's a ridiculous question at all." Andy said. "The fact of the matter is, neither one of them has any say in what we do."

"It's their culture!" Mary said.

"Culture? They lived in herds and learned to mimic our language. Parrots do the same thing. You wouldn't bring your pet macaw into a discussion like this." Andy crossed his legs and his arms and ignored the barrage of outraged shouting that began.

"Herds?" Aiden's booming baritone silenced everyone. More than one person shifted nervously in his or her chair. "Do you have any idea what your kind was doing when we were perfecting the art of creating and using steel for tools and adornments?" Andy stammered and searched for a response.

"You were living in trees and picking fleas off of each other. You were hairy, nonverbal beasts that knew no more of culture or language than the chair you sit on does." Aiden said.

"You're trying to tell me that YOU were here first?" He laughed derisively. "Sounds like you're grasping at straws."

"No," Robbie said. "He isn't. If you ever read the history, you would have known that. If you have anything else insulting to say I suggest you get it over with so that we can get down to serious discussion." Almost everyone was glaring at Andy, even Ron. Mary was slightly surprised by that, and she wondered if he had his own reasons. Silence fell over the room.

"Nothing else?" He glanced around. "Good. The way I see it, we have two issues. We know that we can wake all of the others, that's off the table. By waking the gargoyles we expose ourselves to the same kind of danger that froze them to begin with. I know we're all defended, but on our own we stand no chance against our enemy, and neither do the ones we shelter. The other issue is with the gargoyles themselves, that's why Mary and I needed Aiden and Esme to be involved in this discussion."

"You and Mary discussed this already?" Quentin asked curiously.

"I didn't need all of you with me to take the air this morning. I'm not quite that frail yet." Veronica said. Several people chuckled.

"I wanted Mary to be prepared for all of your questions and ideas." Robbie said. "Hopefully you'll all forgive me for the deception." He faced Aiden and Esme. "Getting back to the second issue, we don't want the others to feel as though they're alone in the world with only human beings to look to for everything, but by the same token, it isn't up to us to decide where and how the others live. What little I know of gargoyle culture says that your kind are as social as humans are, so keeping all of you together in one place would seem to be the best idea. We know that there are complicating factors in that as well."

"I don't think we can answer the first question until we've addressed the second." Ramona said.

"Agreed." Nigel nodded.

"Let's be clear on our options first." Gordon said. "Aiden and Esme would continue to live here and the others would live on their respective estates, or they would all live here?"

"Or I suppose they could split into two groups. Some here, some elsewhere." Quentin added.

"We must be one clan, that is the only way we will survive this transition." Aiden said. His voice was calmer. "We have never lived as individuals scattered about the countryside, we do not know how to manage under those conditions."

"You made yourself at home here with Mary." Alex said.

"I did, though I had a rather large advantage that the others will not have. Because of the enchantment, I learned your language. I was well-informed about the changes in the world long before I ever saw it. When I did wake, Mary was there. She accepted me, and protected me from the beginning. I know the others will not have the advantage of language or knowledge about this age. Because of that, even if you are all as open and accepting as Mary was, I do not think that the others will be able to adjust as well with human contact alone." He took Mary's hand and looked into her eyes. "I do not mean any of that as a slight."

"I didn't hear it that way." She smiled at him. Mary often worried about Aiden not having anyone of his own kind to spend time with. Much as she loved him, she wasn't certain how she would manage if the situation had been reversed.

"I thought not all the clans were friendly with each other." Caroline said.

"They are not, under normal circumstances, but these are hardly normal circumstances." Aiden explained. "If they are awakened in the right order, with the right intervention at the very beginning, I believe that we can become one clan."

"Well, that's a lovely thought, but how is that going to be accomplished? Moving statues around costs a great deal of money." Stuart asked. "Financially, the only thing that makes sense is that each gargoyle stays with each one of us. Besides, that was the point of familial alliances."

"Financially?" Mary was shocked he would even bring up money as a concern.

"Yes. I thought you Americans loved to talk about money."

"You're the one who brought it up." Mary said. "Besides, even if Aiden didn't believe that one clan was best, there's still the problem of secrecy. So far we've been lucky. Very few people know, and the ones who do have kept silent. The more scattered the others are, the greater the number of people who will have to know. The chances of the secret coming out before we're ready goes up exponentially."

"Who says we're ever going to tell anyone?" Ron looked horrified by the concept.

"How can we keep it to ourselves?" Veronica asked.

"We're getting ahead of ourselves." Robbie said. "We will have to discuss how and when this all becomes public, but for right now I think we'll do better to stick with the topics at hand."

"I think secrecy is a valid point." Quentin said. "And I think it dovetails with your first point about protection. I know our friend doesn't rely on the news media for his insights, but I think maintaining secrecy on our end will force him to tread lightly as well."

"I agree, the last thing we need is a public battle." Nigel nodded.

"That doesn't address the logistical question." Stuart pressed. "The others simply are spread out in different locations. What are we to do? Make a tour of the countryside waking each one in turn? Won't that be more of a threat of exposure as Aiden and the new one come flying back here?"

"Out of the question." Nigel said. "All that traveling would be far too stressful for Mary."

"So she can stay a few days at each home." Stuart shrugged.

"I will not be separated from Mary." Aiden said. "And I will not allow her to take unnecessary chances with her own health or the health of the child. I worry that simply waking the others will be too much."

Ron opened his mouth to say something, then thought better of it. He looked away.

"Look, the simple facts are escaping us. The others aren't here, they aren't even all in one place." Alex said. 

"I had Esme moved here. The others could be moved here as well." Mary said. Alex gave a short, derisive laugh.

"And you would, of course, expect us to pay for this." He said.

"Is that all you ever think about?" Veronica asked.

"Perhaps you have pots of money stashed away, but not all of us do." Alex said.

"Oh for heaven's sake, do you really think that anyone is going to put you in the poorhouse over this?" Veronica shot back.

"From a defensive perspective, having them all here makes the most sense." Quentin said. "GETTING them here, seems to leave us terribly exposed."

"Quentin is right." Nigel said. "At least we all provide some measure of protection on our own land. Once they leave our land, we lose all control." The others reluctantly had to agree.

"Not if the truck is a protected environment as well." Mary said.

"Do you know what it takes to create defenses that move with an object?" David asked incredulously. Everyone was looking at her curiously.

"Why are you all looking at me like that? I did it when I brought Esme here. The delivery company came here with their truck to look at the place I wanted to put her, so while they were talking about how to make it work I enchanted the truck. I was afraid that something would happen in transit, though. I suppose I could modify it a bit."

"A bit?" Alex said.

"How do you know it even worked?" Andy asked.

"I felt the enchantment leave with the truck, and it returned when the truck came back." Mary said.

"Nothing against your abilities Mary, but mobile protection is never as sure as protection of a place." Quentin said.

"But it does require someone to be in the same physical place as the enchanted object before one can even attempt to break the spell." Ramona said. "How many associates does our friend have?"

"It used to be as many as we had. Over the years though, his ego has grown and his circle has narrowed." Robbie said. "From what I understand, they're relatively weak without him to focus their abilities as a unit."

"We could overwhelm him." Veronica said thoughtfully.

"Explain, please." Quentin said.

"If we could arrange for transport of the others on the same day, at around the same time, he'll have to choose one or let all of them pass." Veronica explained.

"Meaning we get to control the timing of the confrontation." Robbie smiled a little. "Aiden, is bringing the others here as soon as possible something that would work for you?"

"Yes, it will." He nodded.

"Will my defenses here withstand his group's assaults? Right now, they don't have as much reason to get in as they will then." Mary asked.

"They will, once we all help you strengthen them even further." Robbie smiled.

"Aiden," Nigel started. "I don't mean for this to sound indelicate, and I hope you're not offended." Aiden nodded. "You said earlier that not all of the clans were friendly when you were frozen, what's to keep them from destroying their frozen enemies?"

"That is a question I have considered as well. Part of our oral tradition is a tale of a gargoyle named Jerel who convinced a human wizard to enchant him so that he could see the world in the daylight." All eyes were on Aiden. "As soon as the others of his clan were sleeping for the day, he went into an enemy clan's territory and destroyed as many of them as he could find. When his chieftain awoke the next night, Jerel told him proudly of his great deed. Far from being pleased with Jerel's ingenuity, his clan leaders turned him over to the few who remained of the enemy clan."

"What did they do?" Robbie asked.

"What we do to all cowards. Jerel was tortured to death, the peace accords between the two clans were written in his blood. It is the only tradition that we have to rely on. I believe that the newly awakened will look to those of us who were restored earlier for guidance, but I can give no assurances beyond that." Aiden said.

"Then it sounds as though the decision has been made." Robbie said. "The remaining gargoyles will be brought here on the same day and as close to the same time as possible."

"The cost-" Alex began.

"The cost can be distributed between all of us on a sliding scale." Robbie said. There was a slightly disgusted sound in his voice.

"That's easy for you to say, you no longer have one." Alex countered. Esme gasped, she asked Aiden something in their own language. All eyes were on her.

"Esme did not know of this loss." Aiden said. Robbie told the story and Aiden relayed it, along with Robbie's apology.

"My family and I have been a part of this from the beginning, and I'll do all I can to see it through to the end." Robbie said.

Assignments were given to research to see how quickly this could be pulled together. Ramona volunteered to check with her cousin, who owned a fleet of trucks. They agreed that beginning with someone who was probably friendly to their cause was the best idea. They also agreed to meet again in a week to figure out further logistics. Even though it was late, several people said their goodbyes and left. Everyone else seemed to be as tired as Mary was. No one complained when she said her goodnights, and went upstairs.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary was curled up with a book in the sitting room. Aiden had told her before she even left the conservatory that Esme wanted to talk to her about something, but she had changed into a comfortable nightgown. She had been putting off buying anything new, but just about all of her clothes were plainly uncomfortable now. Unless she wanted to walk around in her nightclothes from now until the baby was born, she was going to have to get a few things to wear in the interim. A leathery flapping on the balcony signaled Aiden and Esme's arrival.

"Child?" He called. 

"In the sitting room." She called back. She closed the book and wrapped the throw from the back of the sofa around herself.

Esme came in first, carrying a bowl that Mary recognized as coming from the kitchen. She held it out to Mary.

"Gift." She was smiling.

"For me?" Mary took the bowl. It was full of a waxy white substance. There was a lovely fresh scent emanating from it. She held it up to her nose and inhaled, trying to determine exactly what herbs she was smelling. "It smells wonderful, what is it?" Aiden translated. Esme was silent for a minute, clearly trying to find English words for what she wanted to say. Finally she gave up and told Aiden.

"She says that it is a lotion that you rub into the skin of your stomach when you wake and before you sleep. It will help your skin to stretch without marking as the child grows." Aiden said.

"Thank you." Mary smiled.

"Welcome." Esme said. She said something to Aiden.

"When you would like more, let her know and she will make it for you." He said.



Heart of Stone Ch. 16



16. Future Echoes, Past Reverberations

It took two weeks to make arrangements with Ramona's cousin Arnie, and another two before he could pull everything together on his end. Arnie didn't ask any questions about why the instructions were so specific, or so unusual. Mary wasn't sure if she liked that or not. Ramona assured her that he was trustworthy, and the rest of the gargoyles arrived without any obvious incident. Mary realized long before that the four she had been told were destroyed hadn't been. It was another deception they all thought had been necessary at the time. In the beginning, Mary had been angry about that. As time went on though, she understood the reasoning behind it. Holding grudges wasn't in her nature anyway.

The decision had been made -- after much discussion -- that the others should be in the garden with Esme. Esme liked the idea of having others around her as she rested, even if those others were strangers for the moment. In seeing Aiden and Esme together, Mary realized how social gargoyles were, and how lonely the two of them had been for others of their own kind. As the sun went down on the evening of the arrival of the others, Mary walked slowly around and between them. She told herself that she was deciding on what plantings would look best, but she was really trying to get a sense of who these new ones were.

Of the ten new ones, eight were male. They were all different from each other as well. One of the males appeared to be only slightly taller than she was, but his muscle mass equaled Aiden's. One of the new females seemed taller and slimmer than Aiden, but her forearms were lined with long spikes, and there were shorter ones on the points of her shoulders. There were two who had no wings and no tails. One of the males had what appeared to be a long braid down his back.

"It is not hair." Esme said. After two weeks she had become as fluent in English as Aiden was. Mary was still amazed on some levels, but she was used to hearing the other female speak. "Males in his clan wear a braided headband as a sign of rank within the group."

"What about females?" Mary asked.

"A female always acquires the rank of her mate. Before that, she holds the rank of her father. In clans where outward symbols are worn, she would wear something similar to what her mate wears. You are well this evening?" Esme stroked Mary's rounded stomach.

"Just fine." She smiled up at Esme and started to walk back toward the house with her. 

"But something troubles you." It wasn't a question.

"Don't take this the wrong way, but it feels a little odd having the others here." Mary stroked her middle lightly.

"You fear for the child?" Esme sounded surprised.

"I know it's silly. This was all my idea, but I can't help but wonder what will happen if they won't accept me as Aiden's mate. If his child isn't recognized-"

"If Aiden's authority is challenged in any way, he will fight to secure it. From what we have been told, the ones who are here are of the noble clans. It is less likely that there will be such divisiveness."

"The others accepting me and the child is part of his authority?" Mary asked. She hadn't considered it that way before.

"Of course. I believe the males will accept the two of you more easily than the females. Especially if those females are still within their fertile years." Mary stopped and turned to Esme.

"Were you upset or offended?"

"No." She chuckled. "I am several decades older than Aiden's mother. Even if you did not exist, I can no longer bear children so mating with Aiden would have been pointless."

"I'm sorry." Mary sighed.

"The end of childbearing is as natural as the beginning." Esme smiled. "If any female thing lives long enough it will lose its ability to conceive new life. It is a change, but not a lamentable one. If the other females are younger, they may see you as an intruder. The position of chieftain's mate is highly coveted among females. With so few of us, that desire may be intensified. I doubt any of them will even put their feelings to words, let alone act on them though. Matings have always been looked at as unbreakable bonds."

Esme stopped and Mary looked at her curiously. Before she could ask what was wrong, she heard Aiden's wings flapping. Esme took a step back and bowed her head. The behavior had surprised Mary at first, but she learned it was simply a sign of respect for a leader. Mary stepped into Aiden's outstretched arms. He kissed Mary softly, his arms and wings wrapping around her for a delicious, warm moment.

"You had a pleasant walk?" He murmured.

"Yes I did, thank you." His arms tightened for a moment, then he released her. "You rested well, Esme?" He asked. They agreement between everyone was that Aiden, Esme and the others when they were awakened would all speak English around Mary and the other humans. She realized that it made her considerably more comfortable.

"I did, thank you." She smiled. "And yourself?" The three of them began to walk back toward the house. Mary knew that Aiden didn't like the idea of her being outside shouting distance of someone else. Mary still didn't like the constant attention, but she had to admit that he had calmed considerably in the past few weeks. She wasn't sure if she should attribute that to her continued good health or to Esme's influence. She wasn't about to question it though.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary lay back on the exam table and let Jenna help her adjust the gown and a sheet to expose her rounded abdomen while still maintaining some modesty.

"Have you ever had an ultrasound for anything before?" Nigel asked.

"No, never. I read a little bit about it online though, when I first found out I was pregnant." Mary answered.

"Then you know it's a simple procedure." Nigel said. "There shouldn't be any pain or discomfort at all, so if you feel anything unusual, just let me know an we'll stop. This shouldn't be too cold." He squirted a thin gel onto her belly, and goosebumps broke out on Mary's skin. "Sorry." Nigel said.

"It's okay, just a little surprising." Mary laughed.

"Now, let's have a look at this little one." He smiled and pressed the probe against her lower abdomen. Mary's eyes were glued to the screen. For a few minutes she didn't see anything other than a grainy black and white blur. The longer she didn't see anything recognizable the more nervous Mary became. Nigel was calmly proceeding though.

"What's wrong? Why can't we see anything?" She asked.

"Everything's fine. Just relax." Nigel said. A few seconds later the recognizable profile of a human being came into view. "There we are." It took Nigel a moment more to get a clear picture on the screen.

"You can see the head and profile." Nigel pointed to the screen. "Two arms, two legs." He pointed to a white line opposite the face. "This is the spine here. If you look here," He pointed to the small chest. "That fluttering is the heartbeat." Mary barely heard what he was saying, she was too transfixed by the image on the screen. 

"It's so fast. Is it supposed to be that fast?" Mary asked.

"It's perfectly normal." Nigel smiled. Either the wand shifted or the baby did, because they got a better view of his face.

"What's that?" Mary asked. "On his forehead."

Nigel looked more closely.

"I've never seen anything quite like it before." He said. "Considering the position and his parentage though, I'd say they were the underpinnings of horns." Nigel typed a command and a photo printed out.

"Does he have wings too?" Mary brushed away tears. It was one of those moments that Aiden's absence was a physical ache. Nigel shifted the wand again.

"Not that I can see right now. That may change over time, or it might not. I'm not certain when that kind of structure would develop, but since he isn't fully gargoyle, it's entirely possible that he won't have wings." Nigel looked almost as amazed as she was. Mary felt the baby flutter inside her. The movement was recorded on the screen, and this time the motion of another appendage was clearly visible.

"Was that the umbilical cord?" Mary asked. 

"I don't think so." Nigel answered. He moved the scanning wand again, hoping to get a better view. It took a few minutes, but he succeeded. Mary felt the fluttering movement again. He smiled. "Unless I'm very wrong, that's his tail. I'll make a video of this for you."

"Can you tell for sure if it's a boy or a girl?" Mary took the tissue that Jenna offered her.

"It's a bit early to be certain. Usually, we wait until twenty weeks to make a determination because the structures are more developed at that point. Do you and Aiden want a boy or a girl?" He asked.

"Aiden says it doesn't matter, but I think he wants a boy." Mary was calmer now, but she still wiped her her eyes.

"What about you?" Nigel asked.

"Since I found out I felt this WAS a boy, but, I don't think it matters so much to me. I just want whatever it is to be healthy." She answered. Mary had begun to worry about that more lately. She knew she was doing everything she could for herself, but that didn't change the fact that this baby was not fully human and not fully gargoyle. She remembered from high school biology that hybrids of any kind were always weaker than their 'pure' parents. Nigel had avoided the subject so far.

"Then I'll keep saying 'he'." Nigel said. "I need to get a few measurements, so it will be just a few more minutes."

"Okay." Mary relaxed, her eyes on screen, watching the small being moving in grainy black and white. 

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary climbed carefully into Aiden's lap. He wasn't awake yet, but he would be soon. As she moved, she realized that an act she didn't think twice about before the pregnancy was going to get more and more difficult as she grew larger. Her center of gravity was already off. By the time she was settled, she was beginning to sense the change in his body. She sat still until his arms wrapped around her. When they did, Mary snuggled into his chest.

"I like waking to find you in my lap." He kissed her lightly.

"I'm not sure how much longer I'll be able to do it." Mary kissed him again. "I already feel off-balance."

"You are not unwell, are you?" One large hand moved over the bulge in her tummy. Mary laid her hand over his and laughed softly.

"We're both fine. I'm just changing shape faster than my balance can adjust." She snuggled close. "Nigel said that's normal."

"You saw him today, correct?" Aiden got up and carried her inside.

"Yes. He gave me something for you." Mary said.

Aiden groaned.

"Not more questions to answer. I can think of no personal detail that I have not shared." He stretched out on the bed. Mary settled next to him just long enough to kiss him softly.

"Nope." She smiled and got up slowly. She took a white envelope from her handbag and settled next to him. "Some pictures."

"Of what?" He looked her at her curiously.

"Your son." She smiled.

"But he is still inside of you." Aiden said.

"I told you I was going to have an ultrasound today."

"Child, you told me this morning, after I was resting." He laughed and stroked one talon through her hair.

"But you heard me." She said.

"I heard you, but you did not understand what that meant." 

"Oh!" Mary blushed. "I thought you knew." Even though her own understanding was limited, she managed to explain how sound waves moving through tissue created an image of things inside the body. Then she showed him the pictures, and he didn't care about how they were made anymore. He stared at the images and then held Mary tightly, his body wrapped around hers. 

Mary kissed him lightly. She was surprised when his tongue slipped past her lips. His body moved over hers carefully, his tail wrapped around her leg. Mary found herself quickly lost in his kiss, her body responding easily, hungrily. Her hands traveled lightly over his chest, her fingers teasing his nipples.

"Esme." Mary managed to mumble between kisses.

"What about her?" One hand lifted the long skirt of her denim dress. Mary moaned against his mouth, completely unable to answer while his hand lightly stroked her thighs.

"Won't she be looking for you?" She murmured finally.

"It is not her place to look for me, she knows that." His mouth got hungrier. Mary shifted so that she could pull the dress up over her head. She tossed it aside.

"Don't you still hunt with her?" She lifted her arms so that he could take off her blouse.

"She is able to hunt on her own." He kissed her firmly, his hands going to the back of her bra. She could feel that he was trying to unhook it.

"Aiden-" His talons tore through the fabric before she could finish her statement. The look of chagrin on his face spoke volumes. Mary couldn't resist a little laugh. "It's okay. That one wasn't fitting very well lately anyway." 

Her mouth found his as her hands took away his loincloth. She stroked his shaft, and he growled against her mouth. She teased him until his hips were thrusting against her hands, then she stopped and pushed her panties down and off. As soon as there was no impediment between them, he settled between her legs. Mary knew that he was very ready, but she wasn't entirely sure that she was. Still, seeing him looming over her, his wings spread and arched, his muscles tense, thick shaft standing almost weapon-like between them, Mary opened herself wider to him.

He didn't need any more encouragement. Aiden's tail stroked her opening only long enough to determine that she was ready for him. He pushed slowly inside her, Mary wrapped her legs around his waist, drawing him in. He was confident now that he could take his pleasure and still not do her any harm, even in her more fragile condition. He began to move, and Mary moved under him, moaning with every deep penetration. She heard him growling with pleasure, she felt the way his wings stirred up the air, none of that mattered though. The pleasure that overtook her was all-encompassing and Mary went with it.

Mary's intensifying pleasure cries mixed with Aiden's deep, growling moans. He moved faster. Her legs tightened around him as the pleasure overtook her. She cried out and succumbed to the intense waves of pleasure that washed over her. His release followed quickly. Mary whimpered softly. He moved her carefully so that he was laying behind her. One hand rested protectively over her rounded tummy. She snuggled back against him.

"I didn't think those pictures would have that effect on you." Mary laughed softly.

"Finding you in my lap when I wake always arouses my passions." He kissed the top of her shoulder. "And, it has been nearly a week since I have seen you like this. Sometimes I feel as though Nigel sees more of your skin than I do." Mary turned to face him.

"I still feel a little self-conscious sometimes." His talons trailed lightly over her breasts. Mary closed her eyes, enjoying his touch. She sighed and relaxed further, ignoring the incongruity of her reaction. "Sometimes I'm just so tired that all I want is to feel you holding me. It seems like it would be wrong to curl up with you like this if I just couldn't go further."

"Do it anyway." He murmured against the side of her head. Mary laughed softly.

"Alright, but I'll remind you that you said that." She took his hand and placed it over her stomach. "He's moving." She murmured. Mary was a bit larger than most women in the sixteenth week of pregnancy because the child she was carrying was a bit larger than a human child at the same stage. She knew it was still too soon for him to feel the child moving, though. The desire to have his hand on her in that way, in that moment, simply wouldn't be denied. He smiled and held her close, his lips brushing her forehead.

"He looks like you, you know." She said when the fluttering sensation stopped. Aiden chuckled. 

"How can you tell?" 

Mary sat up and found the view she wanted. She snuggled against him again.

"I don't think anyone in my family had horns." She smiled and pointed to the tiny spots on the small forehead. His eyes narrowed curiously, then a smile tugged at his lips. 

"Then he will be the first." Aiden pulled her close again. Mary nestled comfortably against him.

For several long minutes Mary just lay there listening to his strong heartbeat, and relishing the heat of his body.

"Are you prepared for tomorrow?" He murmured.

"As prepared as I ever am." She answered, her eyes still closed. "Do you know the one we're trying to wake?"

"I think I may know of him." Aiden answered, his tone subdued. "Esme believes him to be Calvus. He was a warrior when my father came to power. By the time I was born, he had turned his talents to metalwork, and became quite famous throughout the clans. If he is the same Calvus, he is the one who made my rings."

"So his clan was an ally of yours?" Mary finally began to feel the chill of the room. She reached out for a blanket. Aiden found one first, and wrapped her in it. She relaxed against him again.

"Yes. Calvus and the next two we wake will be, though the alliances are of varying strengths. I believe that when we begin to wake those who were not allies in the past, a position of unity will be crucial." 

"If Calvus made your rings, he must have been very talented." Mary could picture the delicate designs incised in the steel. She had never considered their origin before, though.

"He was. If this is the same Calvus, I hope he will agree to make rings for our son as well." Mary opened her eyes and looked up at him. 

"I hadn't thought about that. When were they put in?" She asked.

"The smallest one at my naming ceremony, a month after I was born."

"But you were so young! It must have hurt." Her protective instinct took over.

"I do not remember the pain. Besides, it is the smallest one that contains my name and my father's name. Without it, I would not have been accepted as part of the clan." He stroked her cheek softly.

"I don't think that I want him to be pierced like that, at least not so young." Her hands rested protectively over her tummy.

"He is not only human." Aiden pulled her close. "He must know both sides of his heritage, and you must know that I would do nothing to harm him." Mary relaxed against him.

"I know." She sighed. "I just worry that I'm going to make some terrible mistake. I'm going to do something that I shouldn't, or not do something that I should. At least right now I always know where he is and that he's safe."

"You will love him. Maureen and Esme and the others will help you with the rest." He kissed her temple lightly.

"Was Bergit this nervous?" Mary rarely asked him about Bergit, but now she had no other way to phrase her question. His silence made her believe that she shouldn't have asked.

"I do not know. If she was, she would not have told me."

"I'm sorry." She said softly.

"There is no reason for you to be sorry, child. I am the one responsible for those choices." He kissed her softly. "This is a new century, and I am wiser."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary stood in front to the full-length mirror and brushed her hair. It had been six weeks since she and Aiden lay in bed and speculated about whether or not the next one was the Calvus that had made his rings. Now they knew it was. They had also gotten to meet Jerel, and, after him, the dangerous-looking female called Kitra. Waking them had almost become second nature now, what was still difficult for Mary was the fact that with each new one they woke her time with Aiden seemed to decrease. She could see how much he needed others of his own kind, and how much they all needed each other, but she still felt like an outsider. 

She winced when the hairbrush caught and lightly tugged the small steel ring that now occupied the tip of her right ear. The night before they woke Jerel, Calvus presented her with a ring bearing her name and Aiden's, as well as the date of their mating inscribed in gargoyle script. Aiden had arranged what he called a dedication ceremony and placed it in her ear himself. Calvus and Jerel accepted her with warmly, as did Esme, but Kitra still looked at her with suspicion. 




Heart of Stone Ch. 16



She caught her hair in a silver barrette and smoothed the green dress over her rounded tummy. Any thoughts she had once entertained about hiding her pregnancy were gone. That made her smile a little. Uncertainty might surround everything else in her life, but she was certain that Aiden's son was safe and warm under her heart. There was a light knock at the door.

"Come in." She said.

"Miss Veronica's here. Mrs. March is getting her a cup of coffee." Joanna paused in the door, looking at Mary. "You know it's true what they say about ladies who are in a family way, you do glow."

"Thanks." Mary blushed. "Let her know I'll be down in a minute. Is her room ready?"

"Of course, Miss. Everything's ready. Mrs. March and I have it down to a regular science now." She smiled and left Mary again. Mary checked her hair one last time. She wished her ear didn't look quite so red, but that could have been her imagination too. She was still getting used to it, so she naturally assumed it must look irritated too. She went downstairs to greet her guests.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Joanna was right about these meetings boiling down to a routine. Veronica always arrived first. She, Mary and Caroline would sit together and work on some sort of craft until Ramona arrived and joined them. Then they spent more time listening to her than they did working on their projects. After the rest of them arrived there would be a cocktail hour, then dinner, then the 'awakening' as Mary liked to call it.

Tonight, the topic of conversation seemed to be the ring Mary wore. It was the first time many of them had seen it because she usually wore her hair over it. As she expected, opinions were mixed. Quentin thought it looked too much like a piercing his granddaughter wanted. Robbie saw it as something akin to a wedding band. Nigel was still worried about infection, but he kept the disapproval off of his face most of the time.

Finally, it was time to awaken the new one. Everything went exactly like it had the first four times. Aiden and the other gargoyles joined Mary and her group outside. They waited nearby while Mary guided the others to break the enchantment. The difference was that this one didn't wake.

"I know the enchantment is broken." Ramona said as they stood there, watching the statue in the middle of their circle, looking for any signs of life.

"We should keep trying." Mary said. She was keenly aware of Aiden and the others standing behind her. 

"Perhaps a rest first." Nigel said.

"Maybe that's a good idea. We'll try again-"

"No." Aiden put his hand on her shoulder. Mary turned to look at him.

"But he's not waking, something's wrong." She protested. Mary looked beyond him to see the others emerging from the darkness carrying large stones. "What are you doing?" She was starting to panic. None of the other gargoyles would look at her.

"Child, there is no more that you or anyone can do for him." Aiden explained gently. From the tone in his voice, his meaning was clear.

"That's not true! I just did something wrong, we can fix it." She was starting to cry.

"You did nothing wrong, he simply did not survive the centuries." He brushed the tears from her cheeks, then looked over her shoulder. "I thank you for your efforts, but I ask that you leave us alone to return him to the Earth."

"Aiden, please-" Mary said. Robbie took her arm, she resisted him for a moment.

"She cannot even respect our traditions and we are to accept her as chieftain's mate?" Kitra sneered. Aiden turned quickly, his wings partially unfolded, his tail moved from side to side as he approached the now nervous-looking female.

"You would inject your jealous venom into such a solemn occasion?" He growled. Mary moved a little closer to Robbie, her hands moving protectively over her middle.

"I only meant-"

"I know precisely what you meant, and I will hear no more of it. Not now, not ever." Aiden's voice bordered on threatening. Kitra murmured an apology, but he didn't acknowledge it. He turned back to Mary and the rest of the frozen group. "Robbie, if you would please."

"But-" She said to Robbie as she started to walk with him.

"In your condition, this is best." He said softly.

"Aiden," Mary moved slowly away with Robbie, but she recognized Quentin's voice. It was thick with emotion, too. "Please let me stay. My family protected him all this time."

"Very well, but you may observe only." Aiden answered.

"Thank you."

*~*~*~*~*~*

For a few minutes, everyone gathered in silence in the drawing room. Then they began to hear the distant impact of stone against stone. Everyone made excuses and began to filter out. Some left the Hall entirely, preferring a late-night drive to the gathered sadness. Others simply went to bed. Mary knew from experience that the upstairs library was the quietest room in the public part of the house. She wandered in there and turned on some music. Robbie followed soon after.

"I did something wrong. I must have." She started to cry.

"Of course you didn't." He led her to the sofa and sat down with her. Mary drew her feet up and rested her head against his shoulder. He stroked her back softly. "Gargoyles live a very long time, but they're not eternal. I have a feeling that being frozen is very stressful physically. If this one was old or ill to begin with, it's not surprising that he didn't survive."

"But why did they have to-" Mary found she couldn't say it. "Why couldn't they just leave him as he was?"

"For the same emotional reason that people bury their dead. I suppose we could have our departed loved ones stuffed and mounted in their favorite chairs but we don't because we need to say our final goodbyes and bring our time with them on this plane of existence to a close. It's the same for them, except their bodies don't break down in the same way that ours do. For them to close the chapter, they have to do it themselves." He rubbed her back softly, his head resting against hers.

"Doesn't change the fact that Kitra is right." She swiped at her eyes. "I'm not the best mate for Aiden. I don't know any of this stuff, he didn't even want me there."

"Not because he wants to be rid of you." Robbie sounded shocked that she would say such a thing. "From everything I know from my studies and everything I've observed, gargoyle males are very protective of their pregnant females. I have no doubt that Aiden sent you back here with the rest of us because he knew the upset wasn't good for you or the little one."

"I just feel like everything is changing so fast." She sighed softly and sniffled. He handed her his handkerchief. "We used to spend so much time together, now I feel like I'm taking him away from the others, and I know that they need him so much."

"You haven't mentioned this to him, have you?" Robbie asked, he was smiling a little.

"Well, no." She admitted. "How can I? He's dealing with so much."

"I forget how young you are sometimes." Robbie chuckled softly. "It's been my experience that men are very bad at guessing what women are thinking. It's true, he does have a great deal on his plate right now, but I'm certain he doesn't intend for you to feel pushed aside. He might not realize you feel that way."

"Maybe." Mary admitted. She sighed and relaxed against him. "I keep telling myself that I'm being too sensitive because of the pregnancy hormones."

"That's possible." He said. "But even if you are, he'll want to set your mind at ease." She smiled a little.

"I think the ring was supposed to do that. The whole time I was afraid I would flinch or cry and the others would assume that I didn't want to be his mate." Mary laughed softly. Much as it hurt, the pain was not nearly as bad as she had expected it to be.

"Flinching aside, I think you have some very strong allies among the gargoyles."

"Except for Kitra." Mary said. 

"Kitra reminds me of my cousin Candace. Her goal was to marry the wealthiest, most powerful man she could find. It didn't matter if he was already married, old enough to be her grandfather, or on life support. It was quite sad really."

"Did she find someone?" 

"Eventually. She started keeping a lover two weeks after they got back from the honeymoon. I always felt sorry for him. He was a nice enough fellow really, he didn't deserve the horrendous two years she put him through. Still, it wasn't like she'd caught a prince. She was limited by the circles she could move in. I think Kitra is the same. I would guess that before she would have had no chance to get close to a clan chieftain. Now, she's seizing what she sees as an opportunity for her own advancement. Aiden sees through it." He sounded so sure of himself that Mary couldn't help but believe him. She groaned softly at an strong and unexpected kick. She rubbed the side of her tummy softly. "Everything alright?" He looked concerned.

"He's moving." Mary took his hand, put it on the side of her tummy and pressed hers over it. For a moment, both were silent and still. Then the child shifted again. The movement wasn't as strong this time, but the way Robbie's eyes widened told her that he felt it.

"He's quite the athlete." Robbie chuckled and took his hand away.

"He surprises me sometimes. He's so still and then he gives such a strong kick." Mary laughed softly. 

"This is probably a very personal question, and you don't have to answer if you don't want to." He paused, waiting to see if Mary would stop him. When she didn't object, he went on. "Is he only active at night?"

"No. I never even thought about that until I happened to mention to Esme that he'd woken me up from a nap. It surprised her, so I guess that's unusual." Mary turned away for a moment and yawned. "Sorry."

"Nonsense. Even if things go according to plan I know these gatherings can take a great deal out of a host." His arm tightened around her shoulders and Mary relaxed against him. It wasn't like snuggling with Aiden, but there was something very comforting about it.

*~*~*~*~*~*

"Mary." She knew someone was speaking to her, but the voice seemed so far away. She moaned softly.

"Child?" She recognized Aiden's voice this time. She opened her eyes, unsure of where she was at first.

"Aiden?" She realized she was still resting against Robbie and sat up. "What time is it?"

"A bit after midnight." He offered his hand and helped Mary up. He held on, letting her get her bearings again.

"Why didn't you wake me?" She said to Robbie. "You must have been uncomfortable."

"Not at all. You needed the rest." He got up. "I will say goodnight to you both though." He kissed her cheek softly.

"Thank you." Aiden said.

"No thanks needed." He touched Aiden's forearm lightly. If Aiden had been another man, or a shorter gargoyle, the touch would have been aimed more toward his shoulder, but Aiden's height made that awkward. He accepted the gesture in the spirit that it was offered. He waited until Robbie left before he kissed Mary lightly. For some reason she couldn't fully explain to herself, that tender gesture brought back her anger from earlier.

"I need to go to bed." She turned away from him and started up the stairs. 

"Mary, wait." He followed, easily keeping pace with her.

"Aiden, I'm tired." She spoke softly, her eyes turned away from him. He waited for her to reach their rooms before he spoke again.

"Mary-" She walked away from him, into the bathroom. She showered and changed before emerging again. He was laying in bed, trying to look engrossed in a newspaper. The way his tail twitched told her that he wasn't paying much attention to what was on the page.

"I sent you-"

"You didn't even tell me!" She said.

"What?" He sat up, his heavy brows drawn together.

"You didn't tell me what would happen if one of the others didn't wake. You could have at least prepared me." She was starting to cry again. She put her back to him, trying to get hold of herself.

"You are right." She heard him get up and approach her. She was about to move away again when she felt his hands on her shoulders. Mary turned and relaxed in his embrace. 

"Then why didn't you?" She let him lead her back to the bed. He waited until she was comfortable against him.

"Because I did not want to face the possibility that some might not have survived." He stroked her back with one hand, and laid the other on her belly. She put one hand over his. "And I worried that if I put the idea in your head that some might not wake, you would feel less confident in your abilities. When Esme, Calvus, Jerel and Kitra all woke so easily, it seemed my fears were unfounded, so I said nothing. I realized as soon as I saw the look on your face tonight that my silence was ill-considered." 

"I never see you anymore, then tonight Kitra-"

"Kitra is a grasping female. I've given her to Jerel." Mary was shocked to hear him say something like that so matter-of-factly.

"What do you mean, you gave her to Jerel?" She asked.

"Because she is an unmated female with no living kinsman she is the responsibility of the chieftain. That has always been our custom, but usually when such a thing happens the female in question is in the last stages of her life and needs little or no guidance. Kitra interprets my duty to be a personal connection that is not present. After we -" He paused. "Tonight, after, I spoke with Jerel and Calvus, and Jerel volunteered to act as a surrogate kinsman to Kitra. She objected of course, but the choice is not hers." Mary turned and rested with her back against him, his arms surrounded her.

"Why Jerel?" She didn't know very much about him, but she knew he was a bit younger than Calvus and still shy about speaking to her directly. He had made her a beautiful deerskin sling for the baby, but beyond that he seemed too shy to say anything.

"His sister was much like Kitra, and he assured me that he could manage her outbursts." He said. Mary didn't really want to think about how. "And I had another plan for Calvus."

"To take care of Esme?" Mary asked. She could feel him smile against the side of her head.

"Esme needs very little, though I hope that one day Calvus will take her as a mate. They have already developed a deep affection for each other. But, that is something they can choose for themselves. No, if you agree, I want to assign Calvus as your protector."

"What do I need protection from?" Mary turned her head a little. 

"It is mostly a ceremonial position, given as an honor to an aged warrior." He stroked her tummy gently. The baby was moving, but she knew the fluttering was far too light for him to feel. "It does create a kinship tie though, similar to what you have with Robbie."

"I don't know if that'll be enough." She said.

"Sweet one-"

"No one speaks to me except Esme, and then only when none of the others are around. I always feel like I've done something wrong." She turned away a little. His lips grazed the side of her ear.

"It is a sign of respect, though I see now that it is different enough from your culture that it might seem like a rejection." He sighed softly. "I realize the timing of all of this has been difficult for you."

"I just miss you." Her eyes were closed. "I didn't think it would be this way. I guess I don't know what I thought."

"Things have become more complex than I originally thought as well, but we will adjust. You and your happiness are far too precious to me to allow outside factors to wound you so." He kissed the side of her head softly. "Get some rest, dearest."

"Night." She murmured. For some reason, he always had the power to make her feel better.



Heart of Stone Ch. 17



Author's Note: Sorry it's taken a bit longer than usual to update. I'm a college student and I'm about halfway through the semester. In other words....BUSY. :) I will try and update as frequently as I can (as always) but chapters this long do take a bit of time to write. I hope they're worth the wait.  Enjoy! psyche b

17. Intersecting Threads

Mary stood in the nursery and look around. For a room that had housed countless Beeson babies throughout the years, it was a rather grim space. It hadn't been painted in awhile, but Joanna had cleaned it from top to bottom. It should have looked at least semi-appealing. There was enough light streaming in from the two large windows. The room was spacious enough. There was plenty of storage for toys, books, clothing and incidentals. There was a bathroom attached, and even though it wasn't very large it was comfortable enough. 

"Mary?" Caroline called.

"In the nursery." Mary answered. Caroline appeared in the door a few minutes later.

"Well," She looked around at the institutional white walls. "It's certainly a blank canvas."

"It's horrible." Mary said.

"I don't know if I would go that far." Caroline walked further into the room. Her footsteps echoed slightly in the nearly empty room. "It certainly doesn't look like much at the moment, but I've seen what you can do with a little paint and fabric."

"That's the thing, I'm not sure I want to." Mary sat down in the rocking chair. Her back had started to ache more frequently. Nigel assured her that was normal, it was still an adjustment though.

"The baby has to sleep somewhere." Caroline brought over a ladderback chair and sat down.

"I know that, but does it have to be so far away from everyone else? My suite is all the way at the other end of the house. I'll never hear him when he cries. Even with a baby monitor it's going to take ages for me to get to him. Whoever decided that babies should be put so far away from the rest of the family?" Mary glared at the cold, functional space.

"The same person that decided they should have nannies I suppose." Caroline said.

"That would be an interesting call to an agency." Mary laughed. "'Newborn baby, one teensy little thing though, he's half gargoyle.'" Caroline laughed too.

"True. I suppose trying to fit the common to the uncommon isn't going to work very well. That still leaves the question of where to put him though." Caroline sat back. "Time is getting relatively short."

"I know." Mary rubbed the side of her swollen stomach. It had only been a day since the failed waking, but she felt larger. "There are several guest rooms down at my end. It wouldn't take much to redecorate one of them."

"What do gargoyle females do with their babies?" Caroline asked. From the look on her friend's face, Mary could tell that the question hadn't occurred to Caroline before.

"Esme and I were talking about that the other night. I was worried that because gargoyles live so long that he would still be a baby when I was an old lady." Mary laughed softly. 

"I never thought about that either." Caroline admitted. "What did she say."

"Apparently there are two ways to look at it. Physically, they grow similarly to humans. Emotional and social maturity takes longer. But as babies, their mothers hold them to while they rest for around two or three years. Apparently it all depends on the child's willingness to separate. Since he's already moving through the day and gargoyle babies are still during the day, even in the womb, I'm not sure how that's going to work out. I know that I want to keep him close though." She stroked her side. 

"Then you should." Caroline smiled.

"How are things in the village?" Mary asked. She hadn't been into the village since she started showing. She knew there were all kinds of rumors flying about who the father of the child was. Mary figured they would all find out soon enough. 

"The same as always. Mavis Beckley and June Philby are locked in mortal combat over the directorship of the church flower arranging committee." Caroline said.

"What happened to Alice King?" Mary asked.

"That's right! I keep meaning to tell you and then I always forget. Alice was caught in a very compromising position with the grocer and-" Caroline slid forward.

"Not the one with three fingers on each hand!"

"Yes, I was stunned too, but apparently they've been secretly seeing each other for months now. Anyway, he left the door of the shop open one evening and Jill Emmons walked in to find them in the act right there on the floor in aisle three. You know how Jill is, half the village knew before she went to bed that night. The rest of the committee said she was unfit to be performing such a sacred duty for the church so they voted her out with Mavis leading the charge. Personally, I think that was more because Mavis thought she would be a shoe-in, but then June challenged her and things got interesting."

"I'll say." Mary laughed. "Anything else interesting?"

"Kylie Simms left her husband again."

"That happens every three weeks." Mary waved dismissively.

"She says it's for good this time."

"She says that every time."

"I know, but this time she might be serious. I think she fancies Jerry Liston." Caroline nodded. 

"Alex's best friend?" Mary was shocked. Kylie was known to be rather free with her affections when she and Alex were split up, but she didn't think Kylie would look so close to home for distraction.

"The very same. I didn't say it was wise, just it seemed like she fancied him." Both women laughed. "I bought some of those spice cakes you like."

"Well, why didn't you say so?" Mary got up slowly. Lately sweets made her nauseous, but the spice cakes were more savory than sweet. Mary doubted she would like them as much after her pregnancy was over.  She followed Caroline downstairs and into the kitchen. 

For a few minutes, they busied themselves making tea and getting a small snack ready. Mary knew she could have asked Maureen or Joanna, but there were times that she preferred to just do things for herself. Nigel was already talking about putting her on bed rest for the last few weeks of her pregnancy. He talked about it as more of a precaution, and she knew it was probably best. She wasn't looking forward to it though. 

"Reena?" Collin said from the doorway. Hearing his pet name for Maureen always made Mary smile.

"She's not in here, Collin. Want some spice cake? There's plenty." Mary said.

"That's kind of you, Miss." He got a cup and a dessert plate from the cupboard and sat down. "Actually it was you I was looking for anyway." 

"Oh?" Mary seemed surprised. Caroline poured him some of her tea. 

"There's two men lingering outside the gate." He took a bite of the spice cake.

"You mean they're camping?" The access road was about a mile long before a visitor arrived at the gate. It was mostly wooded land, and technically it belonged to the estate. She never really considered it to be hers though. She knew there were several spots along there where people liked to picnic, but she'd never seen anyone stay longer than the afternoon.

"I don't know, I don't see a tent or anything. I suppose they must be, but there's something just peculiar about them." Collin wasn't the type to get upset easily. The way he picked at the spice cake made it clear to Mary that something had upset him.

"Are you sure they weren't vagrants?" Caroline said. "I saw them too, and they looked like they had been living outdoors for awhile."

"That may be all it is." Collin reluctantly agreed.

"How long have they been there?" Mary asked.

"I noticed them yesterday. They didn't look any too clean then." Collin said.

"Tell them that they have until noon tomorrow to leave." Mary said. "If they don't, I'll call the police." She wanted more than anything to call the police immediately, but that seemed like overreacting. They were probably a couple of students on some sort of holiday. At least, that's what she kept telling herself.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next day, not only were the two still there, they had been joined by a third. She'd told Aiden about it to make sure that he and the others were staying away from the boundaries of the estate when they hunted. He told her to stay away from the gate as well. Still, she had to see this for herself. She spent most of the next morning wandering between windows she thought might give her a decent vantage point only to find that her view of anything but the gate itself was blocked. Finally, she found herself in the attic. From there she could see two of the three men.

She noticed a dusty old telescope and she pulled it closer to the window. It gave her a better view, but there wasn't much to look at. The two men she could see didn't seem to be doing anything at all. They weren't playing games, they weren't talking to each other, or to anyone that she could see. They weren't painting, or taking pictures, or watching birds or anything else that a person might do out in the woods. They just stood there, staring at the house. Something about that seemed very wrong to Mary. The baby's hard kick brought her back to herself. She went downstairs and phoned the police.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary gave Constable Winslow credit. He tried to disperse her gathering crowd several times in the ensuing days, but each time he appeared they disappeared into the trees. She was also grateful to him for not treating her like a hysterical pregnant woman. By the fifth day, there were ten people that she could see, and at least seven others that Collin had seen at the edges of other parts of the estate. 

Calvus and Jerel were ready to take action immediately, pointing out that in ages past the function of the gargoyle/human alliance was protection. The humans had more than lived up to their end of that bargain, and now it was their turn to reciprocate. Aiden listened, and agreed that in times past, there would hardly have been a question of what to do. In these new times though, he decided that the wisest course of action was to watch and wait for the moment.  None of the gargoyles liked the inaction they were forced into, but Aiden reminded them that acting would put them all firmly at odds with the new world they all had to be a part of. 

Mary wasn't sure how she felt about that. Logically, she knew that Aiden was right and that if the situation did take a violent turn for the worse he wouldn't hesitate to act to protect her. Logic wasn't doing much to allay her fears, though. During the long days, she found herself wandering from room to room. At night, even short separations from Aiden were difficult for her. She was frustrated and frightened, and all the time feeling guilty because she knew the constant stress was bad for the baby. 

On Thursday afternoon she found herself sitting in the library with the drapes closed. The room was usually warm and welcoming at that time of day, but the closed drapes settled an air of gloom over everything. The gargoyles were still resting. Caroline and Maureen were the only ones who was brave enough to venture out past the gathered group, and they were in the village to do some grocery shopping. Mary couldn't stand it any longer. She picked up the phone and called Robbie's cell.

"Barnaby."

"Robbie, it's Mary." Her voice sounded timid.

"Mary! How are you feeling?" He sounded genuinely happy to hear from her. That made Mary smile.

"Fine. Am I interrupting you?"

"Not at all, and you don't sound fine." She heard the concern in his voice. Mary sighed and explained what was going on.

"They're just standing there?" He asked.

"Yes. I don't think they sit down or eat or anything. They just stand there, staring at the house. It's like something out of a horror movie." She scratched at the side of her stomach lightly. As if the whole thing wasn't bad enough, her skin had begun to itch. "When the police show up they just disappear into the woods. Since they haven't done anything threatening, the police aren't very willing to chase them all down. I don't know how much good that would do anyway."

"Are they from the village?" He sounded as confused about the whole thing as she was.

"The constable didn't know any of them, but they would almost have to be from the village. There are no vehicles out there. Where else would they come from?"

"That's a reasonable assumption, but I'm not sure reason applies in this case" She could hear a muffled tapping. "I know you're not completely surrounded by walls or fences, but your magical protections have perimeters. Have any of them crossed that boundary?" 

"I don't think so." Mary said. "To be honest, I hadn't even thought of that. Could that be the opposition?" The idea was shocking.

"Yes and no, his associates would be in the upper echelons of society, like ours are. I am certain he's the one behind it though."

"Even if he is, that doesn't seem like a very effective use of resources. He gets them to just stand there and -"

"Things are getting a bit frightening out there." Caroline said. Mary could clearly hear the upset in her friend's voice. "Oh, sorry." She lowered her voice and started out of the room again.

"Hold on a minute." Mary took the phone away from her mouth again. "It's okay, it's Robbie. What do you mean, is it getting weirder?"

"Let me get the hall extension." Caroline brought the cordless from the hall into the library and sat down. "Mary told you about the bunch outside the gate?" Caroline asked after a brief greeting.

"She did." He answered.

"At first they just stood there. When I drove out they were just standing there, but when I came back they walked toward the car like they were going to try and stop me." She shuddered.

"What?" Mary went from nervous to terrified. She noticed Caroline's hand was trembling.

"How did they do that, specifically?" Robbie was maintaining his calm, but the tapping had gotten louder and faster.

"When I drove in they started walking toward the car. They stopped at the edge of the road, but those blank looks all coming toward me was terrifying." She said.

"Mary, don't go off the grounds." Robbie said firmly.

"But I have an appointment with Nigel tomorrow-" Mary started to shiver.

"Cancel it or have him come to you. I need to make a some phone calls to the others. I'll call you back in a few hours' time." His voice was firm, but comforting.

"You do know what's going on, don't you." She said.

"I have an idea." He sighed. "Does the grocery store in the village deliver?" 

"I don't know." Mary looked over at Caroline. She felt like that should be her new mantra.

"I think they do, if the order is big enough." Caroline said. 

"Good." He said. "Fill your pantries and freezers."

"Do you know how much food the Hall holds?" Mary's laugh was forced. She didn't like where any of this was going.

"Yes. Do it." He said. "I'll call you back soon."

*~*~*~*~*~*

For the next three hours Mary tried to be still, but she couldn't quite manage it. She helped Maureen see to the grocery order, but beyond that she had nothing else to occupy her mind. She knew that the answers she was looking for wasn't upstairs. She walked slowly down the narrow steps to the downstairs library. The stairway had been challenging before, but since the dramatic change in her shape, they had become a bit frightening. She knew Aiden didn't like her going down there, but at that moment she didn't feel like she had a choice. She had been mired in inaction for too long.

Mary wasn't sure how long she had been down there, but it wasn't long enough for her to even figure out where to look.

"Miss? Are you down there?" Joanna called. Yelling wasn't entirely civilized, but the downstairs library was off limits to everyone but herself and Aiden. The magical protections someone put in place centuries before made sure of that.

"Yes." Mary walked back to the doorway. "Is Mr. Barnaby on the phone?"

"No, Miss. There's a Mr. And Mrs. Bennett here." Joanna looked surprised.

"Alright. Have them wait in the the library. I'll be right up." The name Bennett was familiar to her, but she couldn't quite place it. On the long trip up the stairs, she wondered what the two visitors thought of her crowd. She also wondered how she was going to explain it. By the time she got to the top of the stairs, the phone was ringing. She answered it before Joanna got there.

"Beeson Hall." 

"It's Robbie. You sound winded, are you alright?" She could hear concern in his voice again.

"I'm fine. I was in the magic library and those stairs are pretty steep. Sometimes I think they're getting steeper." She managed a short laugh, so did he. "I hate to rush you, but I have guests-"

"A Mr. and Mrs. Bennett." He supplied.

"How did you know?" She sat down on one of chairs in the entry way. Instantly she knew why they were out there, no human being could be comfortable actually sitting on them for an extended period of time.

"I sent them. Actually, you met them both at that first gathering at Pemberley Court. They're my housekeeper and butler." Mary was starting to regain her breath, and she was noticing the background sounds. It sounded as though he was driving.

"Alright, I remember who they are now, but why are they here?"

"I hate to do this, I don't think there's any other alternative though. What's going on outside your gates is something akin to a siege. Their numbers of those gathered will increase and they'll prevent anyone from entering or leaving. I have a few loitering around my gates, so do the others. You have the most because of the gargoyles and the fact that you're the most powerful of all of us."

"They aren't being very sneaky about it. If this was meant to prevent a gathering wouldn't it be more covert?" 

"Our friend is counting on our inaction. I sent the Bennetts to you because you're about to have a number of long-term guests and I know you don't maintain a staff large enough to see to all of us for more than a night. If there was some other way-"

"Wouldn't it be better if the gargoyles and I went to someone else? Someone's who more prepared?" The thought of having everyone for more than just the night or a weekend was overwhelming.

"Our protections aren't as strong as yours, but beyond that I'm certain they wouldn't let you out if you tried going by ground." She could tell that he was trying not to scare her.

"Aiden-"

"The promise of getting to you and the gargoyles would mean any of our defenses would be breeched as soon as the sun came up tomorrow. I truly believe this is the only way."

"Maybe you're right." Mary sighed.

"I'm about an hour away. The others are getting themselves together and will arrive as soon as they can. Everyone's been instructed to bring supplies, some will probably bring servants too. We'll talk more when I get there. Will you be alright until then?" He sounded genuinely worried about here. Mary was worried about herself.

"The sun should be down in a half hour or so. I think I'll feel better when Aiden's awake." She sighed.

"Get some rest. If we start arriving before you get up, I'm sure we can amuse ourselves." They said goodbye to each other, and Mary found Bennett in the library. 

"Where's Mrs. Bennett?" She asked.

"With your Mrs. March." He smiled. "I simply wanted to tell you that we are here to help and to support your staff in any way you might need."

"Thank you." She looked at him uncertainly. "What did Robbie tell you about all this?" Mary knew that he and his wife knew about Aiden. She had no idea what they knew beyond that.

"Please, sit down, Miss." She sat down and he sat across from her.

"My family has been servants to Mr. Barnaby's family for as far back as we can trace, even in the lean times. An unusual arrangement today, but it used to be relatively common. My family never had a role in the magical happenings, but we certainly knew the extent of what was going on. Mr. Barnaby wouldn't have sent us here if we needed to be protected from it.." His smile was reassuring. Mary tried to smile back, but she couldn't quite manage it with any sincerity. 




Heart of Stone Ch. 17



"Everyone seemed so awed by Aiden at first. I just assumed it was because of the shock." 

"There's a rather large difference between knowing and seeing." He smiled again. "You'll forgive me for saying so, Miss, but you look exhausted."

His eyes were filled with concern.

"All of this has been so stressful, and now with everyone coming here..." Mary sighed.

"Miss, it's not my place to tell you what to do in your own house, but making yourself ill won't do anyone any good."

She shook her head. "I can't just be absent when everyone starts to arrive."

"Why not? Surely they all know that you're in a delicate condition. Mr. Barnaby will be arriving soon and I know he'll keep the others entertained. Mrs. Bennett and I are here to make sure that everything is prepared for their comfort." He got up and offered her his arm. "May I?"

"Thanks." She used his arm to steady herself as she rose. "Maybe just a nap before dinner."

"Shall I have Joanna bring you some hot tea?" He walked with her to the stairs.

"No, thanks. I appreciate you and Mrs. Bennett being here." Her smile was more sincere now.

"It's our pleasure, Miss." He smiled back.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary had every intention of going to bed, but when she saw that the sun was almost down she wrapped an afghan around her shoulders and went out onto the balcony. She tried to climb into Aiden's lap, the need to be close to him was almost a physical ache. If the baby had been quiet, she might have been able to manage it, but the child was probably reacting to her anxiety. She felt as though he was shifting from one side of her womb to the other, throwing her balance just enough to make climbing seem risky. Somewhere in the midst of all the false starts, she missed the sun slipping below the horizon. She braced herself on Aiden's thighs for one more try, but his arms wrapped around her. She pressed against him.

"What are you doing out here, child?" He murmured close to her ear. "It's far too cold for you to be out here for long."

Mary tried to tell him the few details that Robbie had shared with her, the words came out in a sob instead. Once it was out, Mary lost control of the tears that had been building for days. She wrapped her arms around him tightly. He wrapped his arms and wings around her, sheltering her from everything outside of his body. She knew he was murmuring something in her ear, but whatever it was, it was lost to her sobs. When she started to calm, he picked her up and carried her inside and put her on the edge of the bed. She knew he was moving around, but she wasn't paying attention to what he was doing. She wiped at her eyes with tissues. Eventually he crawled onto the bed behind her. The closed bedcurtains dimmed the light in the room.

"Undress." He murmured against her ear.

"Aiden, I'm not in the mood to-"

"I know, child. My only intention is to comfort you." He stroked her shoulders, before taking the afghan away. 

Mary turned and realized that he was naked already, but he wasn't aroused. She let him help her out of her clothes. He guided her to lay on her side with her back to him. He released the other curtain, closing out the world. He sat behind her, and for a moment, didn't touch her. Mary was confused, but she was starting to relax. Finally, his hand drifted up from the small of her back to the her shoulder and down her arm. Mary trembled as a little more of the tension left her body. She started to turn, but he gently held her in place.

"Not yet." His voice was soft. His hand drifted down over her side, to her hip and then down to her ankle. The back of his hand moved up her leg and down over her arm. 

Mary wasn't sure how long she lay there, or how many times his hand made its lazy way down her back, over her legs and arm and finally around her swollen tummy. She knew that while he was touching her, the rest of the world seemed to fade and grow softer. The child had calmed as well. Aiden turned her, gathering her into his arms and laying back against the pillows. His lips brushed her forehead, his hands continued to drift unhurriedly over her body.

"Tell me what had you so upset." He said. His fingertips barely touched the stretched skin of her abdomen. Mary sighed softly.

"There were more people by the gate today, so I called Robbie." She murmured.

"A wise idea." The cool backs of his talons traced down her left thigh and then up the right. "What did he say?"

"Nothing much at first. The way he said it didn't sound good though."

"And that inspired such upset?" The back of his hand moved over her breasts, but she could tell that the touch wasn't calculated to arouse. The intimate sensation added to her relaxation.

"No. I didn't like it, but I wasn't so upset until just a few minutes ago." She told him about the arrival of the Bennetts and the impending arrival of the rest of the group. "Robbie said it was some kind of a siege." 

"Siege? For what purpose?" Even though his voice was calm, his hand hesitated for just a second.

"From what I could gather it was something about keeping the group from meeting, or to separate me from you and the others." She sighed. "I'm hoping that he'll give me a better explanation later tonight. It sounded like he didn't want to say much on the phone."

"Maybe that is a wise thing." His hand came to rest on her tummy. A little smile touched his lips. "He is sleeping."

Mary smiled and put her hand over his. "I think he was reacting to me being so upset. I was trying so hard to stay calm." She sighed.

"Your upset is still there. If it is expressed it can be managed." His head rested against hers. 

Her fingertips traced lightly over the back of his hand. Mary began to hear the sounds of people moving around in the upstairs hall.

"I should go." She didn't move.

"You should rest." Aiden countered, in the same subdued tone.

"It feels wrong to just leave them to get themselves settled." Her eyes were closed.

"They are adults, they have Maureen and the others. I an certain that Robbie will assist in any way he can as well."

"It's not really his job." Mary snuggled closer.

"You have not slept well in the past few nights." Aiden reached for the afghan and put it over her. Sleep for a little while."

"Will you stay?" Mary held onto him. She could feel him smile against her forehead.

"Of course, child." He brushed his lips over hers.

Mary closed her eyes and let the rest of the world fade away for awhile.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mrs. Bennett woke Mary a few hours later. She dressed, kissed Aiden one more time, and waded out into a sea of chaos. There were several servants she had never seen before moving between rooms on the upper floor carrying linens, towels and luggage. They looked at her curiously, but no one spoke. Robbie met her at the bottom of the stairs, Calvus stood next to him.

"You're looking more rested than you sounded earlier." Robbie kissed her cheek.

"I did manage to get a nap." She said.

"Z'tavick." Calvus smiled and inclined his head. "You are looking well this evening."

The title had surprised Mary at first, but she had grown used to it over the past few days. Calvus didn't feel comfortable simply calling her by name, and 'child' was a far too intimate pet name to be proper coming from anyone but a mate. Loosely translated, Z'tavick meant "leader's honored mate". 

"Thank you." She smiled. "Was your hunt successful?"

"It was, thank you. Z'avi has asked me to remain with you this evening, until he and the others join you later." He smiled.

Z'avi was his honorific for Aiden. Mary didn't think that she could pronounce the growls and clicks that either of them were composed of, but at least she could recognize them.

"Would you like to join us for dinner?" Robbie asked. He and Calvus had become fast friends in the little time they had spent together. That made Mary feel even better about the new arrangement with the massive, wingless gargoyle.

"I will join you, but I will not eat." Calvus answered.

"How did Maureen ever pull a meal together in the midst of everything else?" Mary walked with Robbie and Calvus to the dining room.

"She delegated to Joanna and Mrs. Bennett. They put together a cold buffet, though if you would prefer something hot, I'm sure one of them would make it for you." Robbie said. 

Nigel and his nurse, Jenna were there, as well as Veronica, Caroline, Ramona, Quentin and Andy. She assumed everyone else was getting settled. As soon as she entered, Andy approached her. Calvus stepped forward, putting himself in front of Mary. His advance stopped, the accusation didn't.

"Just how long do you intend to keep us here? Some of us have businesses to run." He said.

"Would you sit down." Quentin sounded annoyed. Calvus stepped back again. "Honestly, I don't know why you insist on making an ass of yourself."

"Because he's so good at it, and talent is a terrible thing to waste." Veronica appeared at Mary's side. "Come on, you need something to eat."

"I'm so sorry for all of this." Mary murmured to the older woman.

"Nonsense. At my age, you tend to look at things like this as a grand adventure." She handed Mary a plate. "Besides, what else could you do?"

"I don't know." Mary started to fill the plate with sliced cold cuts, and green salad. "I'm not even sure what's going on really."

"Robbie didn't telly you?" She sounded shocked.

"He said it was some sort of siege, but that's all." She glanced at Jenna, unsure of how much could be discussed in front of the nurse.

"Robbie!" Veronica turned to look at Robbie. Robbie, who was deep in conversation with Calvus, looked up at the mention of his name.  "You lead us all to descend upon this poor girl and you don't even tell her the whole story?"

"I thought that was best done when we were all gathered." He said.

"Not everything has to be the height of drama." Ramona laughed. "Honestly, you would think we were all in an Agatha Christie novel and you were about the reveal the murderer."

A soft current of laughter went through the room. Robbie smiled.

"That wasn't my intent really, but I think there are surrounding issues that need to be discussed." He said.

"I agree." Veronica said. "But the 'why' of the situation isn't something open for debate. It just IS."

"Speak for yourself." Andy snorted.

"Alright, anyone who is thinking rationally knows that the 'why' of the situation isn't open for debate." Ramona amended.

"Try some of the fruit salad." Veronica spooned some of the mandarin orange, pineapple, strawberry and coconut mixture into a bowl. "It's wonderful."

"It looks good, but fruit and other sweet things don't really agree with me lately." Mary took some salmon salad instead.

"The little one has a diet like his father?" Veronica smiled.

Mary laughed softly. "Well, he seems to, at least for now." She sat down. "So tell me what's going on."

"Do you trust us to explain, Inspector?" Ramona smirked.

"If you go off the track I'll jump in." He said.

"Such confidence." Ramona laughed. "Anyway, siege is a good way to describe it. Our friend's group is practically non-existent anymore. He's strong, but he certainly doesn't have the power to defeat all of us. He doesn't even have the ability to break through your defenses on his own."

"So he sent me a crowd instead?" None of this was making sense to Mary.

"In a way." Veronica said. "Have you looked at any of those people?"

"No. I can see them through a telescope, but that's as close as Aiden will let me get."

"It is a wise prohibition, Z'tavick." Calvus said. "We do not know what they would do to you."

"I know." Mary smiled.

"Well, I had to come in through them today." Veronica said. "I can tell you they all look like street people."

"They very likely are, or very close to it." Nigel said. "One thing you can be relatively certain of is that they all suffer from some sort of delusions or hallucinations. Our friend might not be capable of a frontal assault, but those whose grip on reality is tenuous at best tend to be very easy to manipulate. He creates a delusion that fits the inner life of the person he wants to manipulate, and then allow things to take their course naturally. To them, whatever idea he's planted is the absolute truth."

"And now that they're here, they'll stay until he releases them." Veronica finished. Mary's fork paused halfway to her mouth.

"So they're just going to stand there? Indefinitely?" She asked.

"Oh no." Ramona said. "Just until he thinks he's strong enough to risk a confrontation. Right now, he knows he has no chance. If we were separated, that confrontation would have come sooner, and he would have had more of a chance of winning."

"Gathering bought us time to strengthen your defenses and to plan." Robbie said.

"Do you know how many he'll need to make that possible?" Andy scoffed. "It's a tactic meant to make us run around like scared rabbits, and we took the bait."

"How does he draw power from them?" Mary asked. 

"It's similar to aggregation." Quentin said. "The difference is, we make an effort to transfer our energy to you. When he draws their energy to supplement his own he does so without their consent. Their abilities are extremely limited at best and when you add in the natural resistance to the loss of energy, it takes quite a number of them to equal what we're able to do."

"Unless someone close to you comes under his control, then the story changes." Veronica said.

"How?" Mary asked quickly. All eyes in the room turned to her.

"It works rather like a Trojan horse." Robbie said. "The traitor acts like a conduit between the one who sent him or her, and the one being spied on. He knows knows what's going on and can, in a limited way, inject his venom into the life of the victim. Such spies have limited usefulness, but they can give the one who sends them more of an 'in' than they would normally have."

"Meaning what exactly?" Mary could feel her heart pounding.

"In you case, meaning that it would take less to get through your defenses and he would have more of an idea of your abilities and where your weaknesses lie. Are you alright?" Robbie asked.

"You remember the first time you came here? I told you my maid had gone missing?" Mary put her fork down and clasped her hands in her lap, hoping no one saw them shaking.

"Yes." Robbie moved forward in his seat.

"I saw her with him. The day I first went to see you, Nigel." Mary said. A gasp went through the room.

"Why the hell didn't you say something before?" Andy yelled.

"I did! You knew that she disappeared. You said that your servants disappeared all the time." Mary was visibly shaking. Her arms were crossed over her tummy.

"I wasn't there when you saw her again, was I?" He shot back.

"Why didn't you say something?" Robbie asked. She could hear the shock in his voice, but there was no anger or accusation.

"I don't know, there was so much going on that day." Mary said. Calvus moved behind her and laid one hand on her shoulder. "I'd just found out I was pregnant, I was still trying to process that. I wasn't even sure that it was really her. There seemed to be no reason that she would be with him, I thought I was imagining things because of the shock. If I had know that it meant anything-" Mary was near tears. Calvus squeezed gently, Veronica patted her hand.

"I know." Robbie said. "That does mean our time is more limited."

"I'll gather everyone else." Quentin said.

"Shall I fetch Z'avi?" Calvus asked.

"Please." Mary said. "And ask him to bring the others." 



Heart of Stone Ch. 18



18. Domesticity

Mary stood in the shower and let the hot water wash the tension of the past few hours from her skin. The yelling had started even before everyone was assembled. Neither she nor Robbie could rein the others in. Aiden's booming voice worked well enough to get everyone's attention, but no one was willing to listen beyond that. Unless Aiden wanted to shout the entire time, it was clear that nothing was going to be accomplished as a group. She went to the other end of the dining room with Robbie, Nigel and Caroline and the gargoyles, allowing the others to shout and fling insults to their heart's content.

She ran her fingers through her hair, massaging her scalp, trying to get the tension in her forehead to relax. When it came right down to it, the only change they were looking at was in the timeline of events. With the new insight, their opponent was going to be able to structure and direct his assaults on the group's weakest points. While the others argued, they worked out a plan to wake one of the remaining gargoyles every week, along with strictly monitoring and perfecting Mary's defenses daily. She could tell that Aiden wasn't pleased with that, but he knew it was the best thing in the situation. 

She wasn't sure that she liked it either. The new ones were able to communicate relatively well after a week, but Esme was still adjusting to the cultural differences, so were the others. There was the matter of clan differences, too. Mary worried that waking the others too quickly would cause a schism between those who supported Aiden, and those who didn't. That couldn't be a good thing for anyone.

The doorhandle rattled, breaking through the white noise of the shower and the worries spinning in her head. 

"Mary?" Aiden called. 

"Just a minute." She stepped out of the water, wrapped herself in a towel as best she could. She unlocked the door and opened it for him. Aiden ducked through the low frame, then shut the door behind himself.

"You never lock doors." His heavy brows were drawn together.

"I know." Mary sighed. "For some reason I'm just not feeling very secure right now. There are so many strangers in the house, not to mention all the weirdos outside."

"You cannot believe that any of them would walk into your room without being invited, let alone your bathroom." He cupped her cheek and looked into her eyes.

"Logically, no." She sighed. 

"Tomorrow you will meet the ones you have not met yet." He opened his belt and undressed. "Robbie and the rest will respect your privacy, I am certain of that." He kissed the top of her head, and took the towel away from her.

"How do you know I'm not done." She laughed softly.

"I do not smell your soap or your shampoo." He smiled a little.

"Then you can help." She got back under the water and handed him a shampoo bottle. He chuckled and squeezed a bit into his large hand. "I thought you were out with the others."

"I was, but time with you has become so precious." He stood behind her and began to work the shampoo through her hair. 

Mary leaned her head back and enjoyed the light scraping of his talons against his scalp. No matter how many time he did it, she was always amazed that his talons, which had wounded her so many times in the past, could apply just the right scraping pressure to her scalp. Relaxation spread down down her back.

"I'm glad you're here." She sighed.

"Because you like it when I wash your hair?" She could hear the little smile.

"Yes." Mary laughed softly. "And because today has been so awful I needed to feel close to you."

He turned her around and kissed her lightly. Mary closed her eyes and tilted her head back into the water at his direction. When her hair was rinsed, he combed some of the conditioner through it with his fingers. Mary sighed.

"Maybe you should open a salon." She said. 

He chuckled. "I do not think that is what my father had in mind for me. Besides, I like doing it for you only because I know how much you enjoy it." He leaned down to whisper in her ear. "And I get to see you like this." He pinched her nipple lightly between two strong fingers. A giggle and a moan mixed.

"I should have known it wasn't entirely altruistic." She smiled and ran her hands up over his chest and then down to his hardening member. His moan rumbled off of the tiled walls, his head tilted back.

"If you are not able I will understand." His wings trembled when Mary began to stroke him more fully.

"I can't think of anything in the world I would rather do at this moment." She stood on her toes to kiss him and promptly lost her balance. He chuckled and caught her.

Mary sighed. "I'm never going to be able to be spontaneous again."

"Of course you will, though it may take a few more months." He bent down, letting his tongue explore her mouth. Mary moaned and leaned into him, her tongue teased his, her desire simmering along with his. "Let me help you finish." He murmured against her mouth.

"We could wait," she nipped his lower lip lightly. "Until after."

His hands moved over her back and down to her bottom grasping it, pulling her a little closer.

"What is to stop us from coming back?" His lips traveled down the side of her neck. 

Mary moaned, her eyes closed. "Nothing."

"Then allow me to help you finish." He kissed her forehead and stood up again. He retrieved shower gel and a soft washcloth. 

He started at her shoulders, gently massaging her muscles as he cleaned her skin. Mary relaxed, letting him move her body. Though the gentle, stroking touches were similar to those from earlier in the day, these were clearly calculated to add to her building arousal.

The cloth lingered on her swollen stomach and then moved up over her breasts. His tail moved up between her legs, and then inside her. Mary moaned, her eyes closed. Her hands moved over his stomach and then down lower. His tail started to move inside her as she stroked him. Her little moans mixed with his low growls, and for a few minutes nothing else in the world mattered. She was so close her knees were trembling, but he stopped before she could finish. 

"Aiden-" She moaned. The cloth drifted over her legs, teasing her inner thighs and the tender place between them, sending new shivers through her. His mouth found hers and lingered there while he turned off the water. Eventually, he broke the kiss and handed her the towel she'd been wrapped in earlier.

"Dry off, dear one." He kissed her forehead lightly and stepped away from her to shake the water off of his wings. His fine scales felt like human skin to the touch, but they shed water much more efficiently. He brushed at his body with a towel and kissed Mary one more time.

"I'll be out in a minute." 

"Take the time you need, dear one." He smiled a little and left her alone in the bathroom.

It took Mary longer to finish. She left the nightgown in the bathroom and wrapped her robe around herself. In the bedroom, a few candles were softly glowing. Aiden had arranged two on the king sized pillows and one long body pillow on the bed. 

"Awww." The disappointed sound was marred by the little smirk on his face. Mary noted that he hadn't bothered to dress again, and his desired hadn't waned in the slightest.

"What? I had to bring it out anyway." She toyed with the sash of the robe, a little smile on her lips.

"You could have carried it." He tugged at the end of the sash, untying the bow.

"Impatient." She giggled and took the robe off. 

"If I were impatient I would have found a way to take you in the bathroom." He held out his hand to her. Mary took it and let him guide her into bed. 

Her mouth found his, his tail found its way between her legs again. She pressed down against it. Her tongue danced with his. Her hand wrapped around his shaft, pressing against the underside of it with her thumb. A low, purring growl was building in his chest. It mingled with her own little whimpers and moans of growing need. This tip of his tail found the nub of her pleasure. The flickering sensations were almost enough to bring her over the edge. She realized that he must've been close too, because he grasped her wrist, removing her hand from his shaft.

His lips softened, his hands started to move her body onto the pillows. Mary turned so that her back was to him, her body was supported by the pillows. He settled behind her, his teeth nibbling gently on her neck, one of his arms supported her head, the other wrapped around her body. The broad tip of his erection brushed against her entrance, then pressed against her firmly. Mary whimpered and tensed. Her hand quickly found and gripped his, her nails bit into his skin. The painful pressure eased.

"Child?" She could hear the concern in his voice.

"Slower, please." Her voice quivered. His lips feathered over her temple and ear. 

She relaxed her grip on his hand. He pinched and rubbed her nipple until she moaned and pressed down against him. He maintained a constant pressure, letting her body relax around him until he was as deep inside her as she was comfortable with. 

For a moment, he stayed still inside her. His talons teased her nipples, his tongue traced the shell of her ear. Mary felt completely taken over by him. She turned her head finding his mouth and pressing him hips back against him. He began to move inside her, and she moved with him. His tail moved around and flickered against the swollen bundle of nerves when his hips gained momentum. She cried out sharply against his mouth, feeling the tension building in his stomach. His movements became more erratic, Mary let her own release overtake her. She screamed, he growled when she clenched around him. He pressed deeper and held onto her hips, keeping himself buried deeply. Just from feeling his release, her own pleasure crested again. 

Mary let the world and all the anxiety associated with it slip away for a few blissful moments. All that existed was Aiden and the way he made her feel.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next morning, Mary walked into the kitchen to find a heated argument going on between Bennett and a young woman she had never seen before.

"-and for another, this ain't even your house!"

"Now you listen to me my girl, you're here to assist Miss Beeson, just like the rest of us."

"That don't mean I have to listen to you." The blond girl crossed her arms. "And I'm not here for her neither. I'm here for Mr. Milbourne and nobody else."

"Good morning." Mary said uncertainly. "Am I interrupting?"

"Breakfast is over." The blond girl said.

"Connie!" Bennett looked shocked. "Did you need something Miss?"

"Well, I was hoping to get some breakfast." Mary was unable the keep the uncertainty out of her voice.

"Of course, Miss." Bennett said. The girl rolled her eyes. "Mrs. March prepared eggs with bacon and sausage this morning. Would that do?"

"Not the eggs. Maybe some sausage, toast and some carrots." Mary said.

"Carrots?" The girl asked.

"Cooked or raw, miss?" Bennett asked. If he was surprised, his voice didn't betray it.

"Raw, please." Mary smiled shyly.

"Shall I bring it into the dining room with some tea?" He asked.

"Yes, please." Mary smiled nervously at the blond girl and left the room. She found a copy of "David Copperfield" in the library, then went to wait for Bennett or someone to come in. 

The night before, Maureen had announced that breakfast would be a buffet available between eight and eight-thirty. Lunch would be served promptly at noon, tea at four and dinner at eight. The schedule worked for her, except for breakfast. Her morning schedule became more fluid since she started spending time with Aiden. She wasn't used to feeling like she was putting anyone out though. She tried to read, but she found herself at the end of the page without any understanding of what she had just read. She sighed and put the book aside. She leaned back and closed her eyes. A few minutes later, she heard Bennett clear his throat.

"Are you well this morning, Miss?" He set a tray on the table in front of her. She took the napkin that he offered.

"Yes. I'm just feeling a little off balance with all of this still." The smell of the food was making her mouth water.

He took plates and utensils off the tray and arranged them in front of her. "I imagine it's very different than what you've become accustomed to."

She laughed a little. "You can say that again. I don't know what it's like to have a staff of more than two people. Half the time Caroline and I pitch in and do almost as much as Maureen and Joanna."

"At their request?" He sounded shocked.

"Oh no! It's just that when I came here I was used to doing things for myself, so I just kept on that way. Everything was getting done so I didn't think I needed to hire anyone else. I've had to slow down a bit recently." She ate some of the sausage, instantly calming the wave of nausea that was building. He took a pot of coffee off of the tray. "That smells so good, but I can't have coffee."

"Mr. Barnaby will be joining you momentarily." 

"Unless you'd prefer to eat alone." Robbie said from the door.

"No, not at all." Mary was glad to see a friendlier face.

Bennett finished taking the rest of the items off of the tray. "Will either of you be requiring anything else at the moment?"

"No thank you." Mary said.

"I think I have everything I need as well, thank you Bennett." Robbie prepared the cup and then poured a cup of coffee for himself and watched Bennett leave.

"Did you sleep well?" He asked.

"I did. Where is everyone? With so many people in the house I expected more activity."

"Well, a number of us are able to telecommute so Mrs. March directed us to set up in your drawing room. Nigel and Jenna are setting up some sort of treatment room in one of the unoccupied guest rooms. I hope that's not too inconvenient."

"Not at all. I don't spend much time in the drawing room and if there's an unoccupied guest room it's not likely to be occupied any time soon." Mary finished the sausage and started nibbling at the carrots. 

"Good, none of us mean to put you out. I know that having us all here has been rather shocking. As far as the others, I'm not sure where they are. I haven't seen anyone else since breakfast. It is a lovely day though. I wouldn't doubt if they're outside taking a bit of air. Carrots?" He smiled a little.

"I know it's a little silly, but sometimes I think the baby just wants certain things. Even if it's the totally wrong time of day." She smiled a little.

"Who's to say when the right or wrong time is?" He chuckled. "Have you had a chance to meet the rest of the servants?"

Mary looked away. "I don't think some of them want to meet me. Besides, it's not like they work for me."

"That's true and it's not true. Each person brought who brought a servant with them meant it as a kind of a contribution to your household. While they're here, they ultimately answer to you."

"That doesn't mean I know what to do with any of them." Mary said.

He smiled. "Luckily you don't have to. You have Mrs. March and Bennett, and I'm certain that Mrs. Bennett will assist as well."

"I'm not sure what you mean." Mary admitted.

"Servants are separated into upper staff and lower staff. I dislike those terms, but you can think of it like a company. The CEO has direct contact with very few members of his staff. They all know who he is, but he communicates to those in his inner circle and they disseminate information to the rest of the employees. A household is much the same. You have direct contact with the upper staff, namely Mrs. March and Bennett. They manage the lower staff on a day to day basis."

Mary shook her head. "I'm not very good at giving orders, Robbie."

"The lovely part about this is, that you don't have to be. Bennett and Mrs. March will take care care of that part. When you meet the others all you have to do is to tell them what you expect of them."

"Sounds like you have this all planned out already." She smiled a little.

"Well, last night there wasn't a great deal of time for introductions. I thought this morning might be a better time." He poured himself another cup of coffee.

Bennett appeared a few minutes later to collect the dishes. He asked him to come back with Mrs. Bennett and Maureen. Between the three of them, they worked out a plan to keep the house running smoothly.

"What about Aiden and the others?" Mary asked.

"I'm not sure I know what you mean, Miss." Bennett said.

"Well, it's just that to Maureen, Joanna and I, seeing the gargoyles wake up and move around, both outside and inside the house is normal. I don't want Aiden and the others to feel like they're being stared at. This is their home too." Mary said.

"Certainly the others are aware of Aiden and the others," Maureen paused. "I think. I don't think any of them were there last night when all of you were in the dining room." She started to look worried. "I see what you mean, Miss."

"I doubt that the others would have brought anyone who has no awareness." Robbie said. 

"You'll forgive me, but meeting Mr. Aiden for the first time can be rather shocking." Bennett said. "I believe it's only human to stare at first."

Mary smiled a little. "It was a shock to me too."

"I think the best approach would be to meet the staff yourself and then, if the gargoyles feel comfortable, introduce Aiden and the others tonight." Robbie suggested.

"I think that's a wise idea, Miss." Maureen said.

"Alright." Mary said. "When will all the others be together again?"

"Whenever you want them to be, Miss." Mrs. Bennett said.

"Give me twenty minutes then." She wanted to be done with it. Mary was decidedly uncomfortable playing the role of 'lady of the manor', even in this limited way.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Twenty minutes later, Bennett led five women of varying ages into the dining room. All were wearing simple black dresses, two wore white aprons. All eyes were on Mary. She glanced over at Robbie, he smiled slightly. Mary was reassured by the small gesture.

"I'm Mary Beeson. I'm sorry I wasn't available to greet you all as you arrived, and I appreciate you coming and being so willing to assist Mrs. March and Joanna. If you have any skills that might be of special assistance, please let one of them know. You'll be receiving your assignments directly from Mrs March or Bennett. If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to meet all of you, and know who you came with."

"I'm Eliza, I came here with Miss Veronica." The dour-looking woman said.

"Lila, with Mr. Quentin." A plump girl with frizzy hair said.

"Alice, with Mr. Andrew." The girl looked nervous. Mary wondered why, but figured if she worked for Andy she might be nervous too.

"Emma, with Miss Ramona." The girl smiled, her eyes sparkled.

"Connie, with Mr. David." The blond from the kitchen said. It was clear that she was still upset by this turn of events. Mary didn't know what to say so she ignored it. "I work for him, not for anyone else either."

"That'll be enough of that. You're not on vacation here." Bennett said sharply. He looked at the others, his voice softened. "Mrs. March has your assignments in the kitchen."

Mary and Robbie were silent until the group of servants had disappeared into the kitchen, some silently, some grumbling.

Mary sighed. "I get the feeling I made a mistake."

"Why? Because of Connie?"

"She's right. I don't have any authority over her." She rubbed the side of her stomach lightly.

"I'll let you in on a bit of gossip," Robbie started with a little smile. "Connie provides more than just maid service for David."

"You mean they're-?" Mary was surprised.

"That's the rumor that's going around. Seeing her reactions, and how cranky David was when he couldn't find her earlier this morning I tend to think it's true."




Heart of Stone Ch. 18



"I think that's more than I wanted to know." Mary laughed softly.

*~*~*~*~*~*

After dinner was served and cleared away, the gargoyles met Emma, Cindy, Eliza, Lila, and Alice. Even though they were prepared, they reacted much like Mary expected. Aiden had an imposing appearance on his own, but with Esme, Calvus, Jerel and Kitra standing behind him, imposing turned quickly to terrifying. For that reason, it was decided that they should come in one at a time. By the time Kitra entered, the women were almost accustomed to meeting gargoyles. Eliza was still clearly frightened, but Connie was fascinated. She smiled and fluttered her eyelashes at Calvus and Jerel in a way that embarrassed the two gargoyles. Mary could tell that Aiden was surprised, but he said nothing. Mary excused the women, when she was alone in the room with the gargoyles, Calvus turned to Aiden.

"Z'avi?" 

"Go to where the other humans are. We will join you shortly." 

Calvus nodded. The other's followed him out of the room. Mary noticed that the others looked at Calvus as a second in command. She wasn't sure if that was a formal position like his position as her protector, or simply the result of Aiden's trust in the older male. She wasn't sure it mattered really, she rather liked the idea of it.

Once the others were gone, Mary had to focus on the matter at hand. She knew that they had to attempt another waking. They had all agreed on it the night before. This one didn't have the same routine feeling of the others, though. Mary was more nervous than she had been the first time. Logically, she knew that she had done nothing wrong the last time, but the feeling of the failure sat in the pit of her stomach like a stone. 

Aiden lingered in the dining room with her.

"You are frightened, Child." He leaned down and kissed her forehead lightly. She rested against him.

"I know I shouldn't be. What if this one doesn't wake either?"

"Then we will return him to the earth, as we did with the one before him."

"Aiden-"

He stroked his thumb over her lips. "The end of life is as natural as the beginning. It has been so long since we were enchanted. In that time it is only reasonable to think that not all of us would wake."

"What if he found a way to modify the enchantment? To keep the rest from waking when we release the original spell."

Aiden put his arm around her shoulders and guided her out into the hall. "I do not think that is possible. Deep down, neither do you."

"No." She sighed. "Alright, I suppose everyone is waiting."

He squeezed her shoulder lightly.

In the beginning, Mary's concentration was off, but she managed to put her nervousness aside and they woke a male named Meris. He was slightly older than Aiden, but it was clear that Meris was overwhelmed with the whole experience. He looked at Mary and the others with anger heavily laced with fear and suspicion. Mary wished there was something she could say to reassure him, but she knew that Aiden or one of the others would be better equipped to put him at ease. She didn't resist when Robbie offered to escort her back to the house.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Over the next week, the feeling of jagged chaos that surrounded the arrival of the others softened and smoothed until a routine was established and people found their place in that routine. Ramona, David, Robbie, Quentin, Stuart, Alex, Ron, Gordon and Andy could still work, so they spent their days in the drawing room turned business center. Caroline, Mary and Veronica provided clerical support. Nigel spent part of his time on the phone with his colleagues, but the rest of the time he spent with Jenna. Mary wasn't sure what they did all day, but she decided that it really wasn't any of her business either.

The "treatment room" as Robbie called it was almost as well-equipped as Nigel's office. Mary wasn't sure where he got the equipment or the supply of drugs, but she found she didn't really care either. She felt much more comfortable knowing that all those things were there if she needed them. Nigel also let her know that he preferred she deliver in a hospital, but if this went on long enough he was prepared and equipped to perform a Cesarean section there in the house if necessary. Mary hoped it wouldn't come to that.

With each passing day though, more people arrived to stand outside her gate. By the end of that week, she wasn't able to count how many there were. Aiden and the others told her that the property was completely surrounded, though the borders had not been breeched, nor had anyone even attempted it. She and the others were starting to feel them though. Each day after lunch, they went out onto the front lawn, formed a circle, and used their combined energies to perfect and maintain Mary's defenses. Large as the crowd was, its energy barely registered on Mary's defenses, and then it wasn't a constant. She wondered how many it would take to pose a serious threat.

The presence of the others inside and outside didn't change the fact that Mary was struggling with insomnia. She didn't think it had much to do with what was going on, she simply couldn't find a comfortable position in bed. For the first few days that the house was full she paced around her own sitting room, but by the middle of the week she had begun to wander down to the library again. Sometimes she was able to find comfort on the sofa there. Even if she couldn't, she always managed to find something to read.

The others had been there for about a week when Mary again found herself wandering at night. Aiden and Calvus were off somewhere with the other gargoyles. She went down to the library and settled herself on the sofa with a book. Before long, Mary fell into a light doze.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The little sounds that invaded Mary's sleep seemed too soft to really exist at first. She tried to focus on them, but each time she did they would stop. Finally there was a slightly louder thump. Her eyes fluttered open, she realized there was someone else in the room behind her. She sat up slowly and looked over the back of the sofa, expecting to see Aiden or Robbie. She was surprised to see Meris flipping through the pages of a book. Aiden had told her that he was learning English even more quickly than the others had, she hadn't thought of him reading though.

"Meris?" She said softly. He still looked at her with fear mixed with embarrassment.

He turned quickly. "Z'tavick? I...forgive me. I should have asked your permission." He put the book down again.

"No, you shouldn't. This is your home as much as it is mine." She sat up slowly. 

"I am not worthy of such generosity." He sighed. 

"Why not?" Mary was shocked to hear him speak that way. Aiden had always been so confident. The others were, too. She had come to believe it was a trait of all gargoyles.

He looked at her for a moment, as if deciding whether or not he should speak. "My clan was respected, but I was not the most respected member of that clan. There are many others who should have survived. I can be of no use to Z'avi, or to you."

"But how do you know that?"

"The others-" He looked away. "The others were well known, both inside and outside their own clans." He shifted nervously from foot to foot.

"I don't understand." Mary admitted. "Would you like to sit and explain it to me?" She pointed to Aiden's chair, and Meris sat. She wondered if it was because he wanted to or because he was granting a request made the leader's pregnant mate.

"Esme is the healer that other clans sent for when their own healers were at a loss. Calvus was a warrior in his own right, but after his metalwork made its way to almost all of the clans. Jerel was a tactician and a diplomat. Kitra was never in the circles of power in her clan, but she found acceptance in the society of other females who trained as fighters. The males of her clan did not accept her, and no one chose her as a mate, but she did have a kind of respect."

Mary sat up, her feet tucked under her. "And you?"

A derisive little smile tugged at his lips. "I was a disappointment. Has Z'avi ever told you about the Gal'ach'nor?" 

The punctuated growl meant nothing to Mary. If Aiden had ever spoken about it the word was not registering in her memory.

"I don't think so, but I admit that many words in your language sound the same to me. I tried to learn some, but, that didn't work out very well." Mary blushed a little. Some of the tension left his shoulders. She noticed that they weren't as broad as Aiden's. He had the muscles of a flying creature, but in general, Meris was much more lightly built than Aiden. 

"I am not surprised. Ours is a difficult language under the best of circumstances." Another little smile touched his lips, this one was much more genuine. "I am also not surprised that Z'avi didn't mention the Gal'ach'nor. I am certain that it meant little to him in the long run."

"What is it?" Mary prompted.

"A competition. Every twenty years clans would gather. Differences were put aside in the interest of forming and renewing bonds. When one has friendly memories of others, it is much more difficult to escalate a conflict with them."

"That makes sense. So it was kind of a party?" 

"Some of it yes." Meris sat back in the chair. "There was feasting and trading. Mates were negotiated for, and taken. There were also competitions in craftwork, hunting and fighting. The Gal'ach'nor was competition for warriors." The tip of his tail twitched nervously.

"How did it work?"

"The rules were simple. Only males could enter, and they could enter only once while they were between twenty and forty years old. Those participating were to be ready at any time. Matches were assigned by drawing lots from a bag. Rounds went on until there was only one left standing. By chance the first round was mine, my opponent was Callas. I was larger, older, more experienced. I should have won easily, but there were so many eyes on me I froze. Callas struck first." He touched the side of his head, caressing a large scar. "When I awakened again it was over. Z'avi was barely old enough to enter, but he was the last standing."

"But someone had to lose that first round." Mary could see the embarrassment of the loss was still fresh and she ached to reach out to him, but there were strict rules about physical contact between a mated female and an unmated male. She had no desire to make him feel more uncomfortable.

"That is true, but it is considered an embarrassment to the loser and to his clan. My inaction only made it worse. The female I had chosen as my mate did not speak to me again. When I tried to speak with her father, he saw me only long enough to tell me that his daughter would be mated to another. My father lost all faith in me, so did the other members of my clan. It followed me until we were frozen." He looked away, his head hung in shame.

"Maybe that wasn't your time." Mary said softly.

He glanced at her from under heavy brows. "What do you mean?"

"Well, for me, I wasn't anything before I came here. I had no idea magic existed, even if I had I certainly wouldn't have believed that I had any magical ability." Mary said. Meris looked at her curiously. "When I came here I was terrified. Then Aiden woke up, and he helped me find my confidence. Before is a part of me, but it's not nearly as important is now."

Meris smiled slightly. "But what am I to do now? I know nothing of these times."

"I don't know, but if you let that loss define you, you'll never figure it out."

"I see why he chose you." His smile reached his eyes for the first time.

Mary got up awkwardly. "Thank you. I hope you won't mind if I say goodnight now."

"Of course not Z'tavick." He seemed like he wanted to say something else, so she waited. "May I read your books?"

"Read anything you like. Rest well, when you get there." She smiled and left Meris alone in the dim room



Heart of Stone Ch. 19



Author's Note: Thank you all for your patience and your wonderful and kind comments. They truly make my day. A special thank you to the anonymous e-mail commenter who took the time to explain the biology of hybridization to me. I admit, I'm not a science person and that gave me a good way to think about it.

I hope you all continue to enjoy!

psyche b.

19. Questions, Answers and Questions

Mary sat on a dusty chair and stared out the attic window. She didn't need the telescope to look at the crowd anymore. They filled the spaces between the trees, standing there, silently threatening. Many as there were, the police still had limited success in removing them. 

Every few days they came out at Mary's request. Occasionally they would catch someone, but once removed from the property, the person seemed as confused as anyone else about what they were actually doing there. The assessment that most of them were mentally ill was accurate, at least with the small sample that they had. None of that sample were local, either. The means of getting there was as missing as the reason it seemed so important in the first place.

The crowd wasn't the reason she was sitting in the attic though. She knew that having so many people in the house would change her routines, but she hadn't been prepared for how difficult it would be to get a moment alone. 

She could go down to the magic library, the room itself kept everyone but Aiden out with magical protections. That didn't keep people from yelling down to her, asking if she wanted to do something or other, or asking if everything was alright. The same thing happened when she was in her room. Dusty as it was, the attic had become her private sanctuary, mostly because the entrance was concealed behind a tapestry. Someone would have to know where it was to find it.

She glanced out the window again. The light was fading and she knew that her few minutes of solitude were ending for another day. The baby was starting to move inside her. She stroked the outside of her stomach, attempting to soothe him. 

The idea that there was something wrong with the whole situation ate away at her. It had been over a week since she had started to feel the presence of the crowd, and in that time it hadn't gotten appreciably stronger. At this rate, it would be years before their presence could make a difference. At least, that would be the case if everyone in her enemy's group was as strong as hers. If he was significantly stronger, he wouldn't need to go through these extreme channels. Her stomach growled and the baby started doing somersaults.

Mary groaned a little from the force of the movement. "Alright, alright. We're going."

She made her way through the empty upstairs down to the dining room. 

"Wait a minute." Veronica grasped Mary's elbow and tugged her into the library.

"What?" Mary suddenly felt like she had been caught doing something naughty.

"You have a bit of cobweb on the back her head." The older woman smiled a little.

Mary blushed and ran her fingers through her hair. "Thanks. Did I get it?"

"Yes." Veronica said. "The attic?"

"How did you know?"

"Every summer my children, their spouses and all of my grandchildren descend upon me for two weeks. I love them all, but they're overwhelming when they're all together and the only place I can hear myself think is my attic. I think they're afraid I'll put them to work cleaning it if they come looking for me up there." Veronica laughed. So did Mary.

"Please don't tell anyone." Mary said.

Veronica smiled. "Of course I won't tell anyone. If you don't have somewhere to hide you'll lose your sanity. It's none of anyone's business anyway."

The baby kicked hard again. Mary grasped her tummy and groaned.

"Sorry, he's hungry."

"We should go in then, I'm sure he's not the only one." The older woman grasped Mary's elbow and they walked toward the dining room together. 

"What were you doing out here anyway?" Mary asked.

"I told the rest of them I wanted to fix my hair, but I thought you might be hiding somewhere." She smiled a little.

"There they are." Quentin said.

"Sorry we kept everyone waiting." Mary offered her arm to Veronica while the older woman sat and then took her own seat the head of the table.

"You didn't." Robbie assured her. "We all arrived a bit early."

Dinner conversation was a pleasant drone that surrounded Mary. Occasionally, she would answer a question, but for the most part she simply sat back and let the others entertain themselves while her mind wandered back to the idea of there being something off about the crowd. 

Robbie leaned over. "You're a million miles away." 

"Am I?" She smiled a little. "I didn't mean to be."

"You know, no one would be upset if you wanted to eat alone from time to time." Robbie said.

Mary felt a blush color her cheeks. "Am I that obvious?" 

"Yes." He chuckled. "And it must be very different from how you were raised."

"Aunt Patrice wasn't a complete recluse or anything, but she really wasn't big on entertaining." Mary smiled a little. "She would have the Church Ladies League over once a month, but that was more of a meeting than a social event."

"More like one of our regular meetings then." Robbie said.

She laughed softly. "No, not nearly as lively." 

"Oh?"

"For the whole week before we would scrub and polish every inch of the house. They would arrive at two on Saturday afternoon. They would trade recipes, and gossip and usually plan a bake sale or some other fund raiser and then be gone by four."

"She enjoyed that?"

Mary shrugged a little. "She never seemed interested in doing much else outside the church, so I assume she did."

"Did you?"

"Not really. It seemed like a great deal of work for very little reward, but I didn't have anything else to compare it to either." It felt strange to Mary to talk about Patrice to anyone other than Aiden. Though, if anyone could tell her more about how her family became so separated from Ambrose, Robbie probably was the one to ask. "Was Patrice related to Ambrose?"

"No, from what I know, she was your mother's only living relative who was considered stable enough to raise a child. Even though Ambrose had let go of his grudge, he knew he was far too old to care for you. You were the last remaining member of the Beeson family in America, so it fell to your mother's family to make some sort of arrangements."

"I always thought Patrice was a Beeson relative." 

He looked surprised. "She never told you?"

"She never told me much of anything. If I asked questions she would tell me to be thankful for what I have and stop worrying about things that don't matter."

He smiled a little. "Sounds devilishly frustrating."

"It was. But it made me good at finding information on my own. There are some things that you just can't find in a library though. You know that it took Patrice's death for me to find out about this place. What was the grudge Ambrose had?" Mary barely noticed when Connie traded her salad plate for a dinner plate.

"It's a very common story really. Ambrose's wife died giving birth to his son, Daniel, and he never remarried. He felt that the child was all he had left of her and he was terrified of losing him too. Like most parents in that situation he held on too tightly and drove Daniel further and further away with each passing year, only he was too blind to see it." Robbie paused for a sip of wine.

"So did Daniel just leave?" Mary asked.

He smiled a little. "I don't think he had it in him to just go off somewhere on his own. Daniel wanted to be out from under his father's thumb, but since that's where he'd been his whole life, he didn't know how to live any other way. Daniel started working in London and met an American woman called Marion who was touring Europe. She was profoundly unacceptable to Ambrose in just about every way. She was divorced, not just once but twice, she was older than Daniel, she had a reputation as a 'loose woman'. Daniel was completely taken with her. Ambrose forbade the match, telling Daniel that if he went through with his plans to be with this woman that he would be disowned. Daniel left anyway, probably at Marion's urging. They were married in Boston."

"And Ambrose was sorry for driving Daniel away?" Mary prompted. She picked at the chicken that had been placed in front of her.

"Well, not that he would admit." Robbie said. "From what my father said about the whole thing I think Daniel thought that Ambrose would soften as soon as he learned that he and Marion were married and happy. Of course any kind of communication was absolutely refused by Ambrose."

"Wasn't there anyone to tell Ambrose that he was behaving like a jackass?" Mary asked. At least four heads turned in her direction and the entire party fell silent. Mary looked away. "Sorry." She murmured to no one in particular. The hum of conversation started again.

"No need for apologies." Robbie chuckled. "That's an accurate description of how he was acting, thought it might be an insult to a perfectly respectable beast. To answer your question though, people tried. I know my father tried to tell him that he was being ridiculous, but Ambrose was a stubborn man. He ignored any mention of Daniel. Meanwhile, Daniel and Marion had two children, Marshall and Joy, and from all accounts a reasonably happy life."

"So I have an Aunt Joy out there somewhere?" Mary asked.

Robbie shook his head. "You did, but she was killed in a traffic accident with a drunk driver only weeks before your birth. Prior to that Marion died of breast cancer, and Daniel had a heart attack soon after. Immediately after Marion died, Daniel tried again to contact Ambrose again and again Ambrose rejected the effort."

Mary was feeling completely confused. "Well eventually he had to relent, didn't he? I mean, otherwise he never would have known I existed."

"My father kept track of Daniel because he felt sorry for him, and because we knew there would come a time when Ambrose would die, leaving an opening in the group that would need to be filled." Robbie explained. "It took Daniel's death for Ambrose to really realize how foolish he'd been. He looked for Marshall and Joy, but couldn't find either of them. My father had never had contact with either one, so Ambrose hired a private investigator."

"How long did it take to find them?"

Connie appeared again and removed Mary's dinner plate. Somewhere in the conversation, she'd finished the meal.

"Fruit or cake, Miss?" She asked.

"Neither, just some of Aiden's tea. Thank you." Mary answered.

"What kind of cake?" Robbie asked.

"Lemon cream." Connie answered.

"I'll have that." 

She took his plate as well.

"To answer your question, it didn't take long at all to find them." Robbie continued. "The trouble was, Marshall and Joy had spent their whole lives hearing how Ambrose had rejected their father, and so they rejected his overtures. Ambrose's detective provided updates though. That's how he knew that Joy had died and that Marshall had taken up with....well....what did your aunt tell you about your mother?"

"Nothing, just that she was dead." Mary said.

"I don't quite know how to tell you this. The information that Ambrose got, and I don't vouch for the accuracy of any of it, says that your mother was an exotic dancer." Robbie spoke quietly. Mary's eyes widened in disbelief.

"You mean she was a-" 

"I don't know anything for certain." Robbie said quickly. "I do know that when Daniel left he had no money of his own. Marion had a small settlement from her divorce, but neither of them had ever learned to be frugal. Even though their marriage was strong, their social position took a downward spiral. Joy was working to make something better of herself, but Marshall was content to live the wild life. That in no way reflects on you, you understand." He gripped her hand.

"I know, it's just a little surprising to hear." Mary said. She accepted the teacup Connie brought her.

"I'm sure it is. Anyway, you parents were killed and Ambrose died so soon after that my father felt it was up to him to reach out to your Aunt."

"She wouldn't have anything to do with him, would she?" Mary asked.

"No." Robbie admitted. "He never understood why and I didn't either frankly. Ambrose's estate provided a generous fund for you upbringing and education, but she never touched that money. She certainly didn't want any of us to have any contact with you. While you were a child we had to respect that. Ambrose made the provisions of his will known to my father, so we waited for you to come here and learn enough on your own to find us."

"Aunt Patrice was funny like that. I think she was afraid of losing me somehow." Mary said.

"Losing you? In what way?" Robbie asked.

"She never married and never had children, but sometimes she would call me her 'gift from God'. Not often, but as I got older I could see that she didn't have anyone else. Her sisters were both dead, she had one brother she hadn't spoken to in years because of some dispute over their mother's estate. She had another brother that I found out by accident had been in and out of jail for years. She had no close friends either really. I'm not sure she knew how to really connect to people."

"She sounds a lot like Ambrose in some ways." He smiled a little.

"I guess she does." Mary took another sip of the tea. She looked down at the dark liquid in the cup trying to formulate the next question. "Robbie, how is this going to end?"

His eyebrows were drew together. "I'm not sure what you mean." 

"I mean are we going to sit in here indefinitely? Is there going to be some sort of battle on the front lawn? I can't find anything in the magic library that talks about anything like this beyond using the energy of others." 

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I don't know. Our abilities really don't run to the offensive, so a battle of fireballs and magical lightning bolts is out of the question. We can shield and influence objects and people, but that's all."

"That's why the spell used against the gargoyles feels like a modified shield." Mary said, feeling as though she realized it for the first time.

"Yes, it's a shield that prevents the transition from stone to flesh. Of course influence can extend to moving objects, but that's more of a display. It requires so much energy that even with an army of willing energy donors to draw on, it simply isn't sustainable as a battle tactic for either side. To my knowledge, this is the first time anything resembling a confrontation has happened. I wish I had a better answer for you."

"Me too." Mary admitted. 

*~*~*~*~*~*

After dinner, Mary cleared the uncertainty out of her mind and the group woke a male called Dara without incident. 

Since their first conversation, Mary had begun to notice a change in Meris. He'd learned English faster than the others, but he had also learned customs much more easily than even Aiden had. He embraced the new world he found himself in, wanting to become a part of it in every way. He read everything he could put his hands on, fiction, news, history, anything that would tell him more about this new time and how it differed from the one that he remembered. 

Mary was happy to help him in any way she could. On nights when she was sleepless, she would go down to the library and sit with Meris while he read. Often, he would ask questions. Some she could answer, some she couldn't, but she enjoyed the discussions. After Dara was awakened, Mary noticed that Aiden began to rely on Meris in a new way. Meris became the main instructor for the others. He had a title, but Mary wasn't able to pronounce it. She knew that it was a point of pride for Meris to be given such an important role within the clan. 

The night before she was going to attempt the next waking, Mary wandered downstairs for a cup of Aiden's tea, hoping that would calm her enough to sleep. She'd just put the water on to boil when she heard a soft sound in the kitchen doorway. She turned quickly, Meris smiled a little.

"I hope you will excuse me Z'tavick, I heard something in here and I wanted to be certain everything was alright."

"It's fine. Would you like some of Aiden's tea? I'm not sure what herbs are in it, but he finds it appealing."

"No, thank you." He took a step into the room. "I have not developed a taste for hot liquids yet."

"It took him awhile too." Mary sat down to wait for the water.

"Was there a newspaper today?" He asked, sitting in Aiden's chair.

"No." Mary wasn't sure if she should tell him the reason or not, she decided one of the others was likely to tell one of the other gargoyles anyway. "The crowd's gotten so thick that deliveries aren't getting through."

"Then we are cut off from the rest of the world?" His eyes widened, he leaned forward in the chair.

"Well, I guess that depends on what you mean by cut off." Mary had been telling herself to stay calm since she found out earlier in the day. "We still have the Internet, so there's e-mail. You could always go online to read the news. I'm not sure how comfortable it would be for your eyes, though."

"Is it difficult?" He asked, curiosity gleaming in his eyes.

"No." Mary laughed. "Let me get my tea and I'll show you if you like."

"I would like that very much." He smiled broadly. In the moments of silence that followed, his smile faded to a look of worry. "Does Z'avi know about the crowd?"

"Not that it's gotten so large that no one is able to get in, no." Mary admitted.

"Keeping it from him will serve no purpose." He said quietly.

Mary looked away. "I'm not exactly keeping it from him, I just don't want to upset him."

"What do you fear he will do?" Meris asked.

Mary shrugged. "I don't know really. I just have these visions of Aiden and Calvus attacking people as they stand there."

"If he sees their presence as a threat to you and the others, then it would make sense to eliminate that threat." Meris said.

"But I don't think they're even there voluntarily. They're pawns in this whole thing, and I think if Aiden attacks them, it'll make it more difficult for the rest of the world to accept all of you as cultured and civilized." The water started to boil. Mary got up and prepared the mug and then added the hot liquid. She grabbed a spoon and started toward the library. Meris followed.

"Perhaps you are right about that, but he still must be told the truth of the matter." Meris said. His voice was perfectly rational.

Mary sighed. "I know. Whenever I think of telling him though, it sounds terrible in my head."

"Tell him what you told me. That you do not believe the individuals in the crowd are truly responsible for what they are doing."

"Alright. I'll see if I can find him tonight before I go to sleep." She set the tea down on a side table. "Could you bring a chair that fits you behind the desk? You'll be much more comfortable sitting down."

"Of course." Meris said. She stepped out of his way while he moved the furniture around. When the room was suitably rearranged, she created a profile for him on her computer.

The size of his hands and talons made the laptop's touchpad doubly challenging, and they worked on moving the pointer, clicking and double-clicking for quite some time before he was comfortable with it. Typing presented a different challenge. Meris could read English, and he knew the order of the letters in the alphabet. The order of keys on the keyboard was a different matter. Mary felt certain that he would learn, so she was patient while he practiced.

While he watched, she created a list of favorites for him that included a number of different reliable News sites as well as sites that focused on history and science. She included some gaming and leisure sites as well, though she wasn't sure if he would use those or not. By the time Mary was tired enough to go to sleep, Meris was comfortable navigating those websites and had learned to use Google to search for topics he was interested in.




Heart of Stone Ch. 19



She brought the empty cup to the kitchen and then went to her room. Aiden wasn't inside, but she could hear raised voices out of the balcony. She knocked first and then went outside. Aiden, Calvus, Jerel and Dara were there, and it looked as though she had interrupted some sort of disagreement.

"Child? Did we wake you?" Aiden stepped forward, ushering Mary back inside. The others stayed behind.

"No, I was up getting some tea."

"When I left you were sleeping." Aiden helped her back into bed again. 

"You know I haven't really been sleeping through the night lately. I can't seem to get comfortable and stay comfortable."

He got in with her. "Does the little one wake you?"

"Sometimes." She nestled against him. For a few minutes, he simply held her. Mary was almost content to let that go on. Meris had been right about telling him though. "Aiden, you know the crowd has gotten bigger."

"Yes. We have been monitoring it very carefully." He kissed the top of her head.

"Has anyone mentioned that they're not letting anyone through anymore?" She said carefully.

"No, but with there being so many of them, I assumed that point would be reached soon." Aiden answered. He started to gently massage her lower back with his knuckles. Mary moaned softly.

"Is that what you were arguing about?"

"How did you know we were arguing?" He sounded surprised.

"The way you were all standing with your arms crossed and your wings spread just a little bit."

He chuckled. "You are very observant, whether you understand our spoken language or not. Yes, that is what we were arguing about." He sighed. "It is becoming increasingly difficult for me to to justify our inaction. This latest bit of news will make it almost impossible."

"They don't know what they're doing. Whatever he's done to them, whatever he makes them believe, it's like they have no choice in the matter."

"How do you know this?" He asked curiously.

"From the police. They've caught a few of them. As soon as they get away from the property they have no idea what they were doing here in the first place, or even how they got here. I have to think that everyone out there is in the same situation."

"Perhaps you are right. Our kind has never slaughtered innocents, not even when they were trespassers." He sighed and held Mary a little closer. "Do you know where Meris is? He has become so closely acquainted with your customs, I would like to hear his views on this subject."

"I left him in the library. I taught him how to find news on my computer." Mary could feel herself starting to drift off.

"And he could do it?" Aiden sounded genuinely surprised.

"Well, it's not that difficult really." She chuckled softly. "I think learning to type will be the hardest part for him."

"You are probably right about that." He agreed. His hand drifted over Mary's back, urging her closer to sleep. "I have read that the Internet is unsafe for those who do not understand it."

"It can be, but for tonight I think he'll be satisfied exploring the sites I have set up for him, especially if you need him for a meeting." She couldn't suppress a yawn. 

He kissed her forehead. "Perhaps it is a good thing that he learns your technology. You spend a great deal of time with him when you are up at night, do you not?"

"I spend some time with him, yes." Mary wasn't sure where this was going.

"And he treats you with respect?"

"Of course he does! He just happens to be reading when I'm wandering around. There's nothing more to it than that." Mary said firmly.

"I was not accusing either of you, Child. In fact, I am pleased you are continuing to extend your ties within the clan. I would be remiss in my duties as your mate and protector if I left the question unasked."

"I'll admit, I enjoy spending time with Meris in way that's different than the way I enjoy time with Calvus." Mary said.

"I am not certain I know what you mean." He brushed a few stray strands of hair from her face.

"Calvus is kind, but he's also very formal and that makes him kind of hard to relate to at times. He's different with Robbie. Meris isn't as formal about everything. I can ask his opinion and I know he'll be honest about what he thinks. Sometimes I think Calvus just agrees with me to protect my feelings."

"That is how he was raised, yes. Meris is much younger. Our culture shifted through time as yours does, though I will admit, not as quickly. Calvus is from a time when most males equated the state of being with child to extreme frailty. Perhaps his ideas are outdated, but he does care for you." Aiden kissed her forehead softly.

"I don't doubt that. I care for him too. Will you stay with me until I fall asleep again?" Mary asked. Her arms tightened around him.

"Of course."

Mary fell asleep with him stroking the side of her stomach.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary decided that the days she was supposed to attempt a waking didn't pass like other days. That day was no different than the others. In the early afternoon, the time dragged by so slowly she wondered if the clock was moving at all. As dinner approached though, everything seemed to move too fast. Almost before she knew what was happening she was standing in her now-familiar place at the head of the circle, facing a new statue with the other gargoyles behind her and the rest of the group waiting for her to begin.

When it began, she could feel the barriers that stopped the transformation slipping away one by one. In her own mind she likened it to untying knots, though she had no idea if the others experienced it the same way. Like money and sex, a person's intimate experience of magic was one of those things that was not discussed in polite company.

Even though everything went according to plan, this one wasn't waking. Mary kept trying, looking for something else -- some other enchantment -- that might be holding him back. Finally Aiden put her hand on her shoulder.

"Mary-" He said softly.

"You can't be sure." There were tears in her eyes as she spoke.

"I am certain. You have done all you can." He brushed her tears away, and Robbie stepped forward.

"Then why doesn't he feel any different than the others just before they woke." There was a tremor in her voice.

"I do not know, dear one. Perhaps it is simply a part of our nature." Aiden said. The others had already disappeared into the darkness. "To leave him as he is would be denying him a final honor."

Mary couldn't find the words to answer him. She simply nodded and let Robbie lead her back to the house. She didn't notice if anyone stayed behind, and she didn't notice what the rest of them did once they got back to the house. All she knew was that Robbie brought her into the library again. Maureen brought her a cup of Aiden's tea, but it went mostly untouched.

She didn't know what Robbie said to her, though she knew he tried to keep her calm. Eventually she curled up on the sofa. She felt him put a blanket over her, but that was all she felt until she woke up in Aiden's arms. He was carrying her up the stairs. Mary snuggled closer and closed her eyes again.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next evening Calvus stayed closer by her side than he usually did, and there was something comforting about that. It helped when the others started badgering her about attempting another waking the next night. She'd refused to talk about it during dinner, and afterward she'd disappeared into her sitting room, locking everyone but Calvus out.

"Perhaps they are right Z'tavick." He said quietly.

"We had a plan and a schedule, all I want to do is stick to the plan, is that so terrible?" She looked away when she realized how defensive she sounded.

"You are to be commended for wishing to honor the agreement, but only if you wish to honor it for the right reasons."

"I don't know what you mean." She said, still not able to meet his eyes.

"Yes you do Z'tavick." He said softly. "It breaks your heart every time one of us does not wake, and it takes away another little piece of your confidence in yourself."

"It means I failed." She whispered.

"How could you possibly interpret the acts of nature as a personal failure?" He sounded surprised.

"Because if I had been here earlier-"

He shook his head. "It would have made no difference."

"You can't be sure of that."

"Neither can you." He said firmly.

Mary sighed. "Calvus, I don't know what I'm doing, not really. I've never been taught magic, half the time I just make it up as I go along. I can't shake the feeling that I'm doing something wrong."

Calvus sat back in Aiden's chair and thought for a moment. "Do you know who taught me to make rings like the one you wear?"

Mary touched the ring in her ear absently. "No."

"No one. The technique did not exist until I created it. Just because you have taken your own road does not mean it is the wrong one."

"Sometimes, all it seems so enormous." She murmured.

He nodded. "A great deal rests on your shoulders Z'tavick. Burdens like yours are only given to those who can bear them."

"I'm not saying I'm going to do it, but would the others feel like I was rushing things if I did agree to try the next waking? Is there a period of mourning that would be violated?"

Calvus thought for a moment. "For his immediate family, there would have been a grieving period. For the clan in general, that would depend on his rank. Last night we performed the ritual that returns one of us to the earth in an honorable way. I do not know if Z'avi will decide that we owe him more than that."

"What do you think?" Mary pressed.

"I cannot-"

"Calvus please, can't you just tell me what you think for once." She couldn't keep the annoyance out of her voice.

He watched for her a moment, considering his response. "I think that he was a stranger to all of us. We have given what is appropriate, and I do not believe any more is owed."

Mary nodded. She knew that moving forward was probably the right thing to do. Unless Aiden disagreed, the next night there would be another waking.



Heart of Stone Ch. 20



20. Modern Life

The next night, Mary found herself facing the statue of the last remaining female. For a few minutes, she simply stared at the hunched figure. The others had simply been sitting or crouching. This one looked almost frightened.

"Mary," Robbie said softly. "Perhaps we should begin."

"She looks so terrified." She said, unable to take her eyes from the stone figure for a moment. Finally she pulled herself out of it. "But you're right, we should."

Mary proceeded more slowly than she had before, taking great care to free the enchantments without damaging her in some way. It took a bit longer than with the others, but finally she began to see glimmers of life in the female before her. She released the will of the others and let Robbie lead her away to wait until Aiden told them that it was safe.

They had all become somewhat accustomed to the wakings. The new one always reacted with confusion, but how that confusion was handled seemed to fall along gender lines. In response to their first sight of Aiden, the males tended to take a stance that said that they were ready to defend themselves if need be. The females took a wary, but more submissive stance. Once Aiden started to speak though, the new one usually started to relax. 

No one expected the terrified scream that erupted from the female that cowered at Aiden's feet, and it was clear that Aiden hadn't expected it either. His eyes widened and he dropped to one knee. Mary could hear him speaking softly, trying to calm her, but it seemed that nothing he said worked. Esme laid a hand on Aiden's shoulder. He looked up at her and stepped back.

Mary looked to Robbie but it was clear that he was just as confused as everyone else. 

Esme knelt in front of the cowering female. Mary knew the soft, growling sounds Esme was making were meant to be soothing, and they seemed to be working. The terrified sobbing of the other female had abated to soft, trembling whimpers.

Esme spoke quietly with the female for a short time, and eventually she motioned for Aiden to come forward. He moved slowly, taking care to look as non-threatening as he could.

"Wonderful, she's gone insane." Andy grumbled.

"She's frightened, as anyone would be if they awoke to find themselves in an entirely new world." Veronica said.

"It's more than that." Mary said.

"How do you know?" Quentin asked curiously.

"Look at her. None of the others responded with that kind of extreme terror." She said.

"Insanity." Andy scoffed.

"I think you made your point." Ramona hissed.

"You-"

"Hush." Veronica hissed. "Something's happening."

Esme helped the trembling female to her feet. Aiden had moved closer, but he was still several feet away from her. He was speaking gently, and the terrified female began to calm. She was much smaller and more lightly built than the others, and now that she was standing Mary could see that one of her wings was misshapen, as if the bone had been broken and then not set properly. The end of her tail was missing entirely.

Kitra had begun to move a few feet behind Aiden and Esme, looking at the new female with a blend of curiosity and contempt. Her lips curled into a derisive sneer and she hurled a single word at the new female. Jerel grasped her arm and tugged her back into the shadows. Mary could hear him speaking in a scolding tone.

Finally, Aiden motioned for Mary to come forward. As she approached the new female she could see that her scars weren't limited to her wing and tail. A long, thick scar partially circled her right eye, beginning where an eyebrow would begin near her nose and continuing around to the top of her cheek. Two other lines came off of it like the rays of the sun. There was another long scar that ran from just under her bare breasts to her navel. The female began to shake again.

"Aiden?" Mary whispered.

"Mary, this is Cerex." He introduced Mary in the gargoyle language. Cerex managed a frightened smile.

"I'm pleased to meet you." Mary said. "Can I take your hand?"

"Mary, she is a concubine. For a female of your rank to touch her-"

"She isn't anymore." Mary said firmly.

"This must be discussed among ourselves-" Aiden started.

"Then discuss it." Mary said. 

"You cannot just let her dictate our customs!" Kitra shrilled.

"Times have changed, Kitra. Slavery is no longer-" Meris started.

"Times? We have not changed!" She shouted.

"Meris has a point." Aiden said. "If we are to be accepted-"

"YOU have decided that acceptance is so important you would pervert all we are!" Kitra shouted.

Mary looked from Cerex to Esme.

"He will free her." Esme said quietly as the argument raged on.

"What if he doesn't?" Mary asked.

"Aiden disliked the idea of this kind of servitude, but had no way to change it before." Esme said. "Now that he has the opportunity, I am certain he will take it."

Mary turned to Cerex, who was slowly taking in the scene around her. "I'm sorry this has been so traumatic for you."

Esme translated Mary's statement and waited for Cerex's response.

"She is sorry to have caused such turmoil, and she doesn't understand why she was spared." Esme said.

"You'll discover that reason for yourself. We'll all help you." Mary said.

"ENOUGH!" Aiden roared. The arguing others fell silent, but Cerex looked as if she wanted to run away and hide again. "Cerex has her freedom. Even in our own time she should have been released on the grounds of extreme cruelty."

Esme translated quickly. Tears filled Cerex's eyes again.

"Even if that was not the case, there are so few of us that to create or maintain arbitrary divisions will only defeat our purpose. She will be given all the respect accorded to any female in good standing."

Esme began to translate, but Aiden stopped her. Mary assumed he repeated a version of the same message directly to Cerex. The scarred female began to tremble. Esme helped her sit on the stone block she'd crouched on for so many centuries. She said something to Aiden, Mary looked to Esme for translation.

"She is thanking him, and you."

"I didn't do anything." Mary said.

"You were kind to her, even after you knew what she was. I do not believe she received any kindness from anyone for many years." Esme looked at Mary more closely for a moment. "Are you feeling well?"

"I'm just a little tired." She admitted. "The last few days have been so hectic. Does Cerex want to meet the others?"

Esme relayed the message to Aiden in a way that Cerex would understand. Mary could see the uncertainty on her face. Aiden spoke some reassuring words to Cerex before he turned to Mary.

"What family sheltered her?" Aiden asked.

"Veronica's." Mary said.

"That will be perfect. From there, she will be our guide." Aiden said. Mary started toward the curious others, but Esme put her hand on Mary's shoulder.

"Let me. I will explain the situation." Esme said.

Cerex said something to Aiden. He smiled.

"She asks how long the child has been growing."

"Seven months now." She smiled, even though she knew she looked more like it had been eight months. "He's moving, would you like to feel?"

Aiden translated, and Cerex look surprised. He nodded. The scarred female held out her hand, the tip of her second finger was missing. Mary placed her hand on the side of her abdomen and held it there. For a moment, the child was still, but then he gave a hard kick. Cerex's eyes widened, she murmured something to Aiden, he smiled broadly.

"She says that he is strong."

Mary laughed softly and released her hand.

Esme returned with Veronica and then brought Mary to a wrought iron bench that was just a few feet away. Mary sat gratefully.

"Are you in any pain, or bleeding?" Esme asked quietly.

"No. My back aches, but it's been aching for awhile. I really think I'm just tired." Mary answered. She heard Kitra say something about the frailty of human females, and Jerel quickly reprimand her in the gargoyle language.

"Perhaps. Nigel is still monitoring your progress?" Esme asked. Mary knew that Nigel was spending time with Esme, at first to learn more about gargoyle pregnancy, but she had begun to teach him about gargoyle healing in general. 

"Yes. He says I'm doing fine."

"Relax here while Cerex meets the others." Esme smiled and walked back to Aiden and Cerex. Calvus appeared at her elbow. 

Once the introductions were finished, Esme began the task of introducing Cerex to the other gargoyles. Normally, that wasn't such a problem, but Cerex was still so frightened of others. Mary insisted she could get back to the house just fine, but Aiden wouldn't hear of that. He carried her directly into their suite. By the time Nigel knocked, she was already stretched out on the bed.

"Come in." She said.

"Mary? Are you alright?" He looked concerned.

"Fine. I think I'm just overtired. I haven't been sleeping well the past few nights." She said.

"You're not in any pain then?" He sat next to her on the bed.

"No. My back aches, but it's the same kind of ache I've had for weeks now, there's just more of it lately." She admitted.

"Alright. For the next three days I want you to stay in here and preferably in bed."

"I can't do that, I have a houseful of people-"

"Who will all understand." He said firmly. "This pregnancy is putting a great deal of stress on your body already, getting overtired isn't going to do you or the baby any good."

She shrugged a little. "Women get pregnant all the time." The statement didn't sound quite as nonchalant as she had hoped it would.

"Yes, human women get pregnant and give birth to human children without incident every day in every country on this planet. A pregnancy like yours has never happened before. You're doing very well, but why take risks when they aren't necessary?"

Mary sighed, she knew he was right. "What am I going to do up here all alone?"

He smiled. "Who would you like to visit with?"

"Veronica, Caroline, Ramona, Robbie, you." She smiled a little.

"I'll be stopping by anyway. None of the gargoyles?" He seemed surprised.

"Well Calvus will be here when Aiden isn't. I'm not sure how Aiden feels about having too many of the other males in here. I'm sure Esme will come though."

"I think that will give you quite enough excitement. I want you to rest, not move the party up one floor." He laughed softly.

"Alright, I'll try to be good." She smiled a little. "Nigel, did you happen to notice Cerex's wing?"

"I did. I can only imagine what she suffered. I've never seen any of the gargoyles as barbaric before, but that..." He shook his head.

"From Aiden's reaction I don't think that was normal. I ask because I'm wondering if it could be fixed."

He thought for a moment. "I don't know. It might be repaired cosmetically, but I'm not sure if it's possible to repair it so that she can fly again. I'm not sure she would even trust anyone enough to let them try to fix it."

"I hope she will eventually." Mary said.

"Then I'll hope you're right. I hate to think of anyone going through life so terrified all the time." He got up. "I think I'll leave you to your resting for the moment. Is there anything you want from the kitchen?"

"Some of Aiden's tea, and if there are any Brussels sprouts left over from dinner, a bowl of those." 

"Funny, I've never met anyone who likes Brussels sprouts." He chuckled.

"You still haven't." Mary smiled a little. "I hate them but they're what I want more than anything else in the world at this moment."

He chuckled. "I'll let Maureen know."

*~*~*~*~*~*

After her snack, Mary took a shower. When she was combing out her hair, she heard the balcony door open.

"Aiden?" She called.

"Yes, dear one."

She opened the door a little to see if there was anyone with him. When she realized there wasn't she came out into the room in her nightgown. He bent down to deliver a soft kiss.

"What's that?" She asked, pointing at the wooden bowl in his hand. It wasn't a vessel she recognized, though whatever was in it had a very pleasant aroma.

"It is a calming lotion Esme made for you." He set it down next to the bed.

"That was quick. I've only been up here for a couple of hours." Mary smiled and leaned over the bowl, drinking in the scent of lavender and chamomile. 

"She had it prepared already. She tells me that human females are often uncomfortable in the later stages of pregnancy. If she had known how uncomfortable you were, she would have given it to me before now."

"To you?" Mary asked.

He smiled a little. "Yes." He started to undress.

"I don't think that's what Nigel had in mind when he told me to stay in bed." Mary smirked.

He laughed and tossed his garment aside. "You misunderstand. Undress."

Mary looked at him for a moment and then pulled the nightgown off over her head. She held it in front of her body he situated himself on the bed with his back resting against the headboard. He smiled and patted a spot between his legs. Mary moved awkwardly, but she finally sat down with her back to him. He took the nightgown away and pulled her back against his chest. 

For a few minutes, he just held her with his arms and his tail, and Mary found that alone to be a little slice of heaven. Eventually, he reached for the bowl and took some of the lotion onto his hands.

"Esme says that this will make your skin tingle to begin with, but it should be pleasant." He started massaging the lotion into her shoulders. The warmth of his hands and her skin was making the smell of the lavender even more intense. A pleasant tingle radiated out from where his large hands stroked her skin, and a deep relaxation followed. Mary closed her eyes and sighed softly.

"She could make a fortune if she bottled that." Mary murmured.

Aiden's hands moved down her arms. "I think that Nigel has spoken to her about the other lotion she gives you. She is reluctant to embark on such a venture."

"I'm not surprised. Every time he sees me he says he's never seen anything quite like it. Why is she reluctant?" Mary noticed that each time his hands moved over her skin the tingle returned, but much more softly. 

"We have never needed or desired anything material. The earth provides the majority of what we need, and during the time of alliances, those we protected provided the rest in return for what we offered. Commerce in the way that humans conduct it is not an activity we ever saw a need for." He positioned Mary's arms out to her sides.

She squirmed a little when he began to apply the lotion to her breasts, but the relaxation quickly returned. She let her body go limp again. "There was trade with other clans, though." 

"Barter, yes. For the things that could not be made within the clan. There was no set cost of an item though, it was based on need or want. If both parties were satisfied with the deal, the trade would be made. Esme is uncomfortable wading in to your more complex economy." His voice was soft. His hands lingered longer on her breasts than they had on her arms and shoulders. That was fine with Mary.

"It's a different world, though."

He started to rub the lotion over her swollen tummy. "Calvus has been trying to convince her of that. Now that Cerex has been awakened, I am not certain that adjusting to a new economy will be her top priority."

Mary was silent for a few minutes, both enjoying his touch and the deep relaxation that followed, and trying to frame the next question. Relaxed as she was, she didn't want to offend him. 

"Ask." He murmured.

"Ask what?"

"The question that has been on everyone's mind since Cerex woke." He said. His tone hadn't shifted, and there was no anger in his words. For the first time, his hands stopped moving. Mary looked up at him.

"Were all concubines treated so badly?" She asked.

"No." His hands started to move again. She could hear the edge of anger and disgust in his voice. "In fact, I have never seen one that was so brutalized. If it were not for the fact that her owner was leader of his clan she would have been released. Now you and then others think we are the demons we appear to be."

"No, that's not-"

"You were all horrified, I saw your faces." He said. His hands had stopped moving, he just held her close.

"Well, yes we were." Mary admitted. She turned a little more toward him. "I don't think any of us were expecting what we saw. I know I was shocked because you've always been so kind to me. I know your customs are different, but I guess I never saw them as violent for the sake of violence."

"They are not. Even when we are violent with each other there are strict rules that govern what can and cannot occur. In most cases, even when death was an acceptable outcome it did not go that far. Violence to another outside of those narrow settings was always punished in some way. To treat another like that, I cannot even begin to imagine it." He kissed Mary's temple. "Turn and face me so that I can reach your back."

Mary turned slowly and let him guide her so that her spread legs rested over his. He pulled her forward gently, so that her body was closer to his. When she leaned forward to rest against him though, she felt as though she couldn't breathe.

"Wait, that's not good." She backed away again.

"Are you in pain?" His hand rested on the side of her stomach.

"No, it feels like the baby is pressing against my diaphragm that way. Maybe if I lay down." He helped her move back and then arranged the pillows for her. Mary settled into the little nest he had created for her, her back facing him.

"Is that better?" His hand rested on her hip.

"Much, thank you."

"Good." He kissed her shoulder lightly, and started to work the lotion into her back and down to her hip.

"Did Cerex say why he did all those things to her?"

"He injured her wing after she attempted to escape. The rest he did for his own pleasure." He said. Even without looking at him, Mary could tell that the words left a bad taste in his mouth "I have never seen such depravity, nor can I understand how inflicting such extreme injuries on a female one is supposed to protect can bring pleasure. Even in all my anger at Bergit, the punishments I inflicted were meant more to humiliate her than injure her. They left no permanent mark and I would have been horrified if they had."

"Protect?" Mary asked. If she hadn't been so relaxed she would have turned to look at him. "I didn't get the impression that concubines were very well-cared for."

"Not in the same way that a male protects his mate, no. There is an obligation though, much like the one Jerel has to Kitra. At the very least, the laws of decency apply." He said. His hands moved down over her leg to her foot.

"Esme said you disliked the idea, even before." Mary said.

"She is right. I disliked the idea of one female be lesser than another for something that she had no control over. If one proves herself less worthy than another through her own actions, that is something different."

"Have you told Robbie all of this?" She asked.

"He has not asked." Aiden said. "None of the others have asked anything."

"Maybe they don't know how. You said yourself that they were shocked. Maybe they're still processing it all."

"Can you turn onto your other side?" He asked.

"Yes, if you'll move the pillows." Mary said. She sat up slowly and he rearranged the pillows so that she could be comfortable on her other side. Once again, he started at her back and worked down to her hip, chasing the tension from her muscles. For a few minutes, silence reigned.

"You think that speaking to Robbie will help the others understand?" He asked. 

"I don't know, but I'm pretty sure they're probably already asking him questions." Mary said.

"I will seek him out after you fall asleep." He said. His hands moved down her other leg, banishing tension and ache as they went.




Heart of Stone Ch. 20



"I don't think that'll take very long. That lotion and your hands are a magical combination." She smiled a little.

"I worried you would fear me." He said. His hand lingering on her thigh.

"No." She opened her eyes and smiled up at him. "You're the best thing that ever happened to me."

He kissed her, his lips lingering on hers for a long, luxurious moment. "And I feel the same about you, child." 

He lay down behind her, one arm resting just under her breasts. Mary closed her eyes and left herself drift off to sleep wrapped in a perfect mix of Aiden's warm, spicy scent, and the sweet lavender aroma.

*~*~*~*~*~*

For most of the first day of her enforced rest, Mary slept. She hadn't realized how hard she'd been pushing herself to keep up with everyone else until she wasn't doing it anymore. She was almost glad that no one but Nigel had stopped in to see how she was during the day. In the evening, Aiden spent several hours with her before going out to hunt, and after he returned to apply more of the lavender lotion to her skin. It had the same affect as the night before, and she was asleep again before she knew it.

The next morning she felt much better than she had in quite awhile. She got up, called down to the kitchen for breakfast, dressed in comfy sweats, then stretched out on top of the covers with a book. She was surprised when Robbie came in along with Maureen and her breakfast tray.

"You're looking well-rested." He smiled.

"Thanks. I'm feeling better than I was the other night." She said. When Maureen finished setting up the food and coffee on a small table in the sitting room, she left.

"I'm glad to hear it." He said.

She moved to get up and he offered his hand. Mary took it gratefully. He held her arm while she sat at the table as well.

"You know I stopped in yesterday around this time and you were sleeping." He said.

"You should have woke me up." Mary started with the sausages on the plate. They were overdone, just the way she liked them.

"I most certainly should not have." He said, and poured himself some coffee. "You were sleeping and that's exactly what you needed. I don't think we should have pushed you so hard to wake Cerex so soon after the other attempt. It caused you to draw too heavily on your energy reserves."

"How is Cerex? Has she met everyone yet?" Mary asked.

He took a sip of his coffee. "She has, though as to how she is, I'm not sure how to answer that. She's still terrified, although that seems to be starting to ease. Esme never leaves her side. She's started to learn a bit of English as well. Hopefully that will help her feel more at ease."

Mary watched him closely. "There's more to that story."

He smiled. "You know me too well. Andy and his little group think that this is some sort of a sign that the gargoyles are too barbaric to live in today's world. The others reminded him that what Cerex suffered was an aberration and that there are humans who do the same kinds of unspeakable things to their partners."

"Have you talked with Aiden?" Mary asked.

"Yes, that first night. I don't think I've ever seen him so troubled." 

"I know he's worried about what the others think." Mary said. She finished the sausages and moved on to the banana. It was the first time she'd been able to stomach fruit in nearly a week.

"And he's worried about you." Robbie said.

"I wish he wouldn't worry about me. There's so much else on his plate." Mary stroked her swollen stomach.

"But you and the baby are the only ones that he loves." Robbie smiled a little. Mary looked up at him with a weak smile. "What's wrong?" He asked.

"All of this happened at the wrong time." Mary said. Her voice cracked as she fought back tears. "It was the wrong time to get pregnant, now if something doesn't happen to end all this..." She couldn't finish the thought. Speaking it out loud would only make it seem worse. 

He took her hand. "Everything happened at the right time. If the timing wasn't right, it simply wouldn't have happened. That's how life is."

*~*~*~*~*~*

After Robbie left, Mary stretched out in bed to read, but promptly fell asleep. She woke about an hour before dinner when Nigel knocked. He seemed thrilled to find her resting and looking so refreshed. Ramona, Caroline and Veronica had dinner with her that evening. She got to hear all about Ramona's sister's third marriage breaking up and Veronica's granddaughter's desire for a belly button piercing. It was a wonderful frivolous conversation that almost made her feel as if everything in the world was normal. Mary had an strange feeling that it wasn't though. She couldn't explain why she felt that way, or even what the feeling might mean, but she couldn't shake it either.

After they left, Esme and Cerex came in. Esme wanted to check on Mary and drop off a fresh supply of the lavender lotion. Cerex came along because she didn't feel comfortable without the older female. Mary was only too happy to let Cerex practice her limited English and to teach her a few new words as well.

The next day was very much the same. People dropped by to visit, she napped and then Aiden came in to spend time with her until she fell asleep for the night. In all, it was almost idyllically peaceful, and a time that Mary was almost sorry to see end. The feeling of something brewing was still with her though. 

The next few days were almost as calm. Mary spent time downstairs, but she still disappeared to nap when she needed to, and she still watched the crowd when she got a free moment. There was something different about them now. To Mary it didn't look like there were as many as before, and all of them weren't perfectly still like before either. Every so often she would catch a flicker of movement from one of them. Those movements were few and far between though. She was almost able to convince herself that she hadn't seen anything at all. Almost.

The feeling that something was changing clung to her, surprising her in quiet moments with its intensity and staying just on the edges of her consciousness like an itchy mosquito bite that could be ignored. Aiden noticed her unease and did his best to help her relax before bed. It worked for awhile. She was able to sleep for about four hours before she woke up again. By that time she had to go to the bathroom anyway. Convincing herself that a cup of tea would be relaxing was a fairly easy step.

In the quiet downstairs hall, Mary noticed that there was a soft light drifting out from the the library. The quality of the light made her think it was most likely from her computer. She smiled a little, figuring it was probably Meris. She made her tea and then went in to join him.

She stood in the doorway for a minute, not wanting to startle him. His brows were drawn together, his eyes were intent on the screen. "You look more comfortable with that." She said softly.

"Z'tavick, are you familiar with Twitter?" He asked, not looking up.

"I've heard of it, I don't have an account though. Why?" She walked closer and set her tea on the desk. 

"I do." He said, looking up at her for the first time.

"You do?" Mary couldn't keep the surprise out of her voice.

He moved a chair so that she could sit. "I do not post anything, I did not think it would be wise. I do follow others though."

"Who?" Mary asked curiously. 

"It began with the news agencies you directed me to. Then celebrities they mentioned often. Eventually I began to follow ordinary people. I wanted to know what people do, what they think about, how they experience their lives. Right now this is the only way I can do that." He spoke quickly, as if she were going to reprimand him.

Mary smiled. "I think that's a really good idea actually." 

A smile whispered across his features. "Thank you, Z'tavick."

"You're still upset though." She said.

He nodded. "It seems this house, and the crowd surrounding it has become a topic of speculation and discussion."

"What?" Mary's eyes widened, bells started ringing in her head. That's why the crowd seemed different. "What are they saying?"

"At first it was simply a curiosity, but that sparked further interest in others. Now speculation is rampant about what draws the crowd, what is going on in here, and why no one can get past your boundaries." He said. "Tonight I found that there is an extensive photo gallery on another website." He turned the computer a little and Mary clicked on the series of photos.

Most of them just showed the exterior of the house in the daylight. They were all from too far away to show any detail of what might be happening inside. Someone did get a long distance shot of the gargoyles when they were resting. Mary began to click through more quickly. There was a night shot that showed some the empty blocks where an awakened gargoyle had left for the nighttime hours. It was only sheer luck someone hadn't captured one of them leaving or returning. The second to last photo made her stop.

It was a picture of the gates and crowd beyond. Her mouth went dry.

"This was taken from the house." Mary said. She started to get up and lost her balance. Meris took her hand and steadied her while she stood.

"Z'tavick?" He asked.

"Get Aiden and the others. I'll try to figure out who I can trust and wake them up."



Heart of Stone Ch. 21



21. Preemptive Strike

Mary rapped sharply on Robbie's door. There were a number of people she trusted completely, but of them, he was the only one who might know what to do. She waited and knocked again, hoping that no one else would wake up and ask what she was doing. Finally she heard someone moving around on the other side of the door. She glanced up and down the hall, reassuring herself that she was still alone.

When Robbie finally opened the door, he looked significantly older than he usually did. It looked as though he'd tried to smooth his hair down, but not all of it had cooperated.

"Mary? What is it?" He asked softly.

"This house is on Twitter." She said. It was a bad explanation, but she didn't have a better one that was as concise.

"Alright. I'm not certain why that's important at this time of morning." There was an unfamiliar edge of annoyance in his voice. Mary didn't blame him, really. She still didn't know how to answer him.

"Please Robbie, I wouldn't get you up at this hour if it wasn't important." She said.

He looked at her closely for a long moment. "I'll be right there." 

Mary went back down to the library, but found that both Meris and the laptop were gone. She checked the solarium next and found all of the gargoyles gathered there. Meris was giving the others a short lesson on Twitter and the Internet in general. Calvus brought a chair for her and set it next to Aiden.

"Robbie's coming down," she said to Aiden, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Good. I cannot say that I fully understand how Meris came upon this, but I can see how upset you both are."

"Maybe I'm overreacting," Mary said, suddenly uncertain about the seriousness of what she had seen. Sure her house and the crowd were on the Internet, but there were pictures of aliens and Bigfoot on the Internet too, and no one took those seriously. When she considered her feeling that something was off about the crowd, her reaction didn't seem so out of proportion.

"No," Aiden said firmly. "These photos could mean our exposure. We wish to be part of your world, but we wish to become a part of it on our own terms."

She grasped his hand, a little smile touching her lips. Meris was fielding questions from the others, she knew from the expression on his face that Aiden was only half listening. He had more of an understanding of what Meris was describing than the others just because he'd been awake and interacting with the modern world longer than the others. Anything that he wasn't sure of, Mary was certain he would ask later.

"Are you in pain again?" he asked.

Mary smiled a little. "No. I wanted some tea and happened to find Meris in the library."

"After, you will go back to bed."

"Aiden, I can't just leave when-"

"I do not think that there is anything to be done about it now. Making yourself ill will do no good."

She sighed. "Maybe you're right. I'm not going anywhere until I hear what Robbie thinks though. How would it look if I woke him up and then disappeared?" She smiled a little.

He smiled too. "I agree, that would be rude."

She heard footsteps on the stairs and started to position herself so that she could get up. She didn't want Robbie to have to look all over the house for them.

"Stay." Aiden gripped her wrist. "Calvus."

Calvus nodded and got up quickly. Mary sighed and moved back in her chair. Calvus returned a moment later with Robbie, who had taken time to dress and comb his hair. He looked considerably more awake than he had just a few moments ago.

Meris let him look at the postings and click through the photos on his own. Mary could see the worry on his face growing with each new image that appeared on the screen. He got to the end and then went back to the one that had so struck Mary. He look at it in silence. Mary was certain that she could see the vein in his temple pulsing.

He looked up at Mary. "I'm sorry I was so short with you."

"It's so late, you don't have to-"

"Yes I do. I should have known this was serious." He sighed. "The problem is, I don't have any good answers for you."

"May I speak?" Jerel asked.

"Of course," Aiden said.

"It occurs to me that whoever is making these images from inside the grounds has access to much more..." he paused. "I do not know the word," he growled out something. Meris thought for a moment.

"Sensational," he supplied.

"Thank you. This person would be able to capture far more sensational images than the one we see here. Is it possible that the person is not a willing participant in this...group?"

"What Jerel says has merit," Meris said.

"We have been betrayed," Kitra said. There was an icy edge to her voice. "If we allow for excuses we will have no safety in our own home."

Calvus shook his head. "Betrayal is a conscious choice. A betrayer must be aware that the knowledge he has is harmful and he must make an effort to use that knowledge to the detriment of others," His eyes were fixed on Kitra. "If this person truly had no desire to cause harm, then it is not a true betrayal as we define it."

She leaned forward, her lip quivering, as if she were about to bare her teeth. "You would have us-"

Jerel gripped her wrist tightly. She turned, snarling. Jerel was calm, but the set of his jaw and the way his wings arched made it clear that her outburst was unwelcome. She tugged her arm away from him and turned away.

"Kitra has a point," Mary said. The dangerous-looking female looked at Mary quickly.

"I do not need you to approve of my opinion!" Kitra shouted.

"That's not why I'm agreeing with you," Mary countered. Kitra's eyes narrowed. "The only fact we have is that the photo was taken from inside the grounds and inside the house looking out at the crowd. It's not very clear. None of us, human or gargoyle, is in it. It could be something innocent that found its way onto this site. It could be the person who took it only had time to snap this in a moment alone and means to get more. We just don't know, we won't know until we figure out who it is."

"I am sorry, but I fail to see how this image could have made its way into this collection by innocent means," Esme said.

"The way I understand it," Meris started. "Images, or anything else, that is sent on the Internet can end up anywhere. Perhaps this image was sent to a friend and the friend noticed the interest and reposted it to this community." He turned to Robbie. "Is that an accurate description?"

"Yes it is. I agree with Mary, that we don't really know what the intent was behind it," Robbie said. He looked over at her. "How do you propose to find out though?"

"Ask," she said simply.

Kitra sneered. "Ask? That is your great plan to find the truth?"

"Someone who meant no harm would be likely to admit to their act," Calvus said.

"You assume they have honor," Kitra said.

"If we are left to solve a mystery, then it will be clear that harm was intended," he replied. "If nothing comes of it, what have we lost?"

"The element of surprise," she said.

"We lose that no matter what method we use to find out in a timely manner," Jerel said. "I see no benefit in letting the mystery linger."

"I agree." Aiden nodded. "The longer we wait, the worse this has the potential to get."

"We should meet tomorrow morning," Robbie said to Mary. "If we bring everyone together we'll have a better chance of guaging reactions."

"No." Aiden said firmly. "Our entry into your world hinges on this knowledge. We will not be excluded from your investigations."

"Forgive me." Robbie said. Kitra snorted. "The hour and the adrenaline must be getting to me, I was only thinking of resolving the matter, not of everyone's conflicting schedule. Of course you should all be present."

"I am certain there were good intentions behind your suggestion," Aiden said. 

"There were. Tomorrow evening, after you all wake?" Robbie suggested.

Aiden nodded. "That is acceptable to us." 

"Then I'm not certain that there's anything more to say at the moment." Robbie said.

"No, and the hour is very late for you and Mary," Aiden agreed. 

Robbie offered to walk Mary back to her room, but Aiden thanked him and assured him that he would see that she was taken care of. Robbie went back upstairs and the other and the other gargoyles left. It was a gesture of respect for the privacy of their leader and his mate that was not lost on Mary. Once they were gone, Aiden picked Mary up carefully. She smiled and snuggled against him.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary slept late the next day, and when she woke up it was a little after eleven. Everything seemed to take longer now that she'd grown so large, so by the time she'd showered and dressed, it was lunchtime. Going downstairs wasn't appealing, and she had just picked up the phone to ask something be brought up when someone knocked at the door. 

"Come in." 

Robbie peeked in before opening the door wide. "I was wondering if you were coming down for lunch."

"I don't think so." Mary said. 

"You are going to eat, aren't you?" He looked instantly worried.

Mary laughed. "Yes, I was just going to call when you knocked. Would you like to join me?"

"I'd like that very much. Let me go down and make the arrangements."

"Do you know what's being served?" 

"Salmon." 

Mary smiled. "That sounds wonderful."

"I'll be back in a few minutes." He let himself out and Mary went to stretch out on the sofa in her sitting room. She rested on her hip with a pillow supporting her belly. The baby moving was what had woken her up to begin with, and he hadn't been still since she got out of bed. In the shower, she'd been able to see her abdomen changing shape as the child shifted.

A few minutes later there was a knock at the door. "It's just me, Mary."

"I'm in the sitting room."

He joined her. "I have strict instructions from Nigel to make certain that you're feeling well."

"I feel as fine as a beached whale can feel." She tried to manage a smile. "I'm just not certain I can go down there and face everyone, wonder who took the picture, and keep quiet about the whole thing until tonight."

"I'm having a difficult time with that myself." He admitted. "I know Andy and a few of the others have been contentious, but I have a hard time believing that anyone would betray us on purpose."

"If someone did, what will the gargoyles do?" 

He shifted in his chair uncomfortably. Before he had a chance to answer, someone knocked at the door. "That must be lunch. I'll get it."

"Good morning, miss." Maureen said. Robbie helped her set up the small table in Mary's sitting room. 

"Morning, or afternoon I guess." 

Maureen laughed softly. "If anyone deserves a little extra rest, it's you. I gave you an extra portion of fish and more greens."

"That sounds wonderful." She started arranging herself so that she could get up. Robbie helped her up, and let her use his arm to steady herself as she sat down.

"Will there be anything else for either of you?" Maureen asked.

"I think we have everything we need for the moment. I'll call if we need anything else," he said. Maureen showed herself out. "This looks delicious."

"You didn't answer my question." Mary took a bite of the fish.

He looked uncomfortable again. "Did you ask Aiden?"

"Yes. He wouldn't answer me either."

"For one of their own, the penalty is up to the one who was wronged. It might be anything from a term of servitude to death. I don't have any recollection of what happens to a human who betrayed one of them. I may have something at home in my library, but I don't have a way to access that right now." He sighed. "I don't know if Aiden will follow those traditions or come up with his own idea of what's appropriate if it comes to that."

"Why couldn't he just tell me that?"

"Because he can see the pressure you're under. He doesn't want to add to it."

Mary found it very hard to argue with that. 

*~*~*~*~*~*

"What's this about?" Andy asked. They were all gathered together, but Mary still hadn't told them why.

She and the gargoyles sat facing the group. Watching everyone's reaction was as close to a strategy as she and Robbie had been able to come up with. "I'll let Meris explain."

He turned to Robbie. "If you will assist me."

Robbie had set up a connection between his laptop and a television set to make it easier for everyone to view the images. He hadn't had a chance to explain the set-up to Meris beforehand though.

"It works like Mary's laptop." He spoke softly. "Whatever you do will project there."

The gargoyle ran his finger experimentally over the touchpad and watched the cursor move. "Ah, thank you." Meris began to speak, calmly recounting the facts that had so upset all of them the night before. Mary scanned the faces in front of her. At first, all she could see was worried curiosity. Even after Meris started scrolling through photos, all she could see in front of her was concern. She began to think this wasn't going to work. Her mind started to race, wondering what their options would be if no one reacted.

"This next image, was the one we found most concerning," Meris said. The photo taken from the house came on the screen. Mary watched expressions of shock bloom in front of her, but all the color drained from Veronica's face.

"Veronica?" Mary said. "Are you alright?"

"I-" The older woman started to tremble. "I had no idea it would end up there. Oh God I think I'm going to be sick." Caroline gripped her hand. All eyes turned to her.

"What do you mean?" Robbie asked. 

"I keep in touch with my granddaughter by e-mail. She and my daughter haven't been getting along and she asked if she could stay with me for awhile. Of course I didn't want to say anything about what's going on here, so I tried to help her work it out with her mother. I've never been much of a peacemaker, and I succeeded in making things worse. I had both of them asking me to take Emma in. I had to tell them something. Neither of them believed me when I said I was here and couldn't leave. It broke my heart when Emma said I didn't care about her. I sent the photo to prove what I was saying was the truth. I didn't even have the beginning of an idea..." she looked at Mary and then Aiden. There were tears in her eyes. "I am so sorry."

"I think we need to take a break," Robbie said.

No one protested, they all still looked too shocked.

Mary got up and went over to Veronica. Aiden followed.

"Aiden, I don't even know how to apologize enough." The older woman was still trembling.

He dropped to one knee in front of her. "You had no ill intentions, that much is obvious."

"That doesn't change the fact that I've ruined everything." Veronica tried to keep the tears in her eyes from falling.

Caroline handed her some tissues.

"No you haven't. The fact that this is a topic of conversation at all changes things," Mary said. 

"Mary is right. Decisions would have had to be made whether or not that image had been among the ones we saw," Aiden said.

It took fifteen minutes for Veronica to calm down again. By the time she did, everyone else was getting restless. Aiden gave Mary his arm to lean on while she got up.

"I feel terrible about this." Her voice not above a whisper.

"You had no way of knowing what would be uncovered. This was the best way." His tone was equally soft.

They sat and let Robbie call the room to order again. "I think it's clear that operating in secret is no longer an option."

"Why not? For all we know this is nothing more than a bunch of children who have nothing better to do with their time," Caroline said. "We have no proof that they actually know anything."

"Maybe they don't, but in a public forum, there might be someone else who does," Quentin said.

"What if it isn't about actually knowing anything at all?" Mary asked.

Everyone looked at her strangely. 

"I'm sorry, you'll have to explain that." Robbie said.

"This whole time we've been trying to figure out why he's bothering with the crowd because he wasn't drawing any power from them, or at least not nearly enough to do anything."

"Yes, unwilling subjects in that state really don't have anything to give." Robbie said.

"But they do draw attention," Nigel said, understanding dawning in his eyes.

"You can't mean-" Andy paused. "That's positively ridiculous."

"Is it?" Ramona said. "The last time it started with rumors of demons and plague. He used the fears of the population to draw his power and when he had enough he carried out his plan. This time the crowd is his red herring."

"He can't have known it would make it to the Internet though." Andy said.

Robbie shook his head. "Everything makes it to the Internet eventually. Besides, it damn odd. Even if he didn't start the discussion himself, someone driving by or trying to make a delivery tells someone and they send it in an e-mail or instant message to a friend. Maybe one of the police tweets about it just as a 'saw a strange thing today' kind of thing and the curiosity of ten other people is piqued. It would be only natural to speculate about what might be going on, as well."

"All he has to be is wait and guide that speculation." Gordon said.

"We're idiots." Ramona said.

"We were distracted by what was in front of us," Nigel said. "That doesn't make us idiots."

"It makes us damn short-sighted," Andy said. For the first time in a long time, there was no sneer evident in his voice.

"Maybe so, but agonizing over it won't help now," Nigel said.

Robbie nodded. "Nigel's right. We could debate where we went wrong from now until doomsday, that isn't going to get us anywhere. Where do we go from here?"

"We wait." Ron said.

"If we wait that gives him the advantage," Ramona said.

"Why?" Andy asked, the sneer was back.

"Think back to when you were a child and you were accused of something. Even if you didn't do it, no matter what you said, it sounded bad," Ramona said.

"What does that have to do with this?" Ron asked.

Calvus looked at Aiden, Mary recognized that he was asking for permission to speak. Aiden nodded slightly. 

"Because unless one is highly prepared in advance, defending almost always places one in a position of weakness," Calvus said. 

"In this case, we would be left to answer the allegations they make," Meris said. "Those allegations and the view of us defending against them will be the only view of us the public has."

"Are you saying that you want to..." Robbie paused. "to introduce yourselves, to the world first?"

"We wish to control this," Aiden said. "The only way to control it is to do it on our terms. We will be forced into defense often enough."

The room fell silent. 

"There may be an advantage in that," Nigel said slowly.

"Explain," Robbie said.

"Mary?" Nigel said.

Mary blushed and looked down at her swollen stomach. "Go ahead. It's not like it's a secret."

"Mary is reaching the point in her pregnancy where she needs more rest and monitoring than I can provide her at home. It would be safer if she were hospitalized until the baby is born."

"Immediately?" Ramona looked worried.

"No," he said. "But within the next few weeks certainly. It would be considerably easier to find a hospital - and safer for Mary - if all the specifics of her condition are known."

"And I will not be separated from her." Aiden said. 

Nigel smiled. "There is that too. Anyway, I have a few private facilities in mind, but I think there would be less turmoil if Aiden's existence wasn't a complete shock to the staff."

"Do the rest of us have any input in this?" Andy asked.

"No," Aiden said. "We are grateful and we know we will continue to need your assistance, but in this matter the final decision must be mine."

"And if we don't continue this assistance?" Ron asked. 

"We will." Quentin's voice was firm.




Heart of Stone Ch. 21



"Of course we will." Ramona said.

Plans were made quickly to wake the final two gargoyles. They decided on attempting the first waking in an hour, the second in four days. Meris had been designated as the one gargoyle who would deal with the media, though Mary wasn't entirely certain how that decision was made. She was fairly certain that it was because he was the only one who said he would do it. Robbie and Quentin both had contacts in major news agencies so they spent the time discussing the best ways to bring the news out.

Mary spent the time relaxing and preparing to wake another. The waking was the one thing she wasn't certain of. Cerex had been awake for such a short time and she wasn't sure how the scarred female, or any of the others, was going to deal with public attention. She knew Aiden was right though, and she had to trust him on this.

Aiden carried her to the garden. She was sure that hearing Nigel articulate the delicacy of her condition had worried him. 

Without incident, they wakened an elderly male named Arris. He seemed fascinated by Mary's pregnancy, to the point that Mary was almost embarrassed. Esme assured her it was because of the confusion of waking. 

The next few days sped by, and it became clear that Esme had been right. It was also clear that Arris was far more physically frail than the others. By the second night, he had acquired a stout limb which he leaned on heavily. 

"Can he hunt?" Mary asked Esme the next evening. She and Cerex usually spent time with Mary every evening. It helped Cerex with her English and provided Esme a chance to make certain Mary was alright.

"No, but that happens to many of our kind who reach advanced age. We will care for him." She said.

"He seemed so confused in the beginning." 

Esme smiled. "You want to know if his mind is sound."

Mary felt bad for asking the question. She couldn't quite meet Esme's eyes. "Sometimes that happens to human beings, maybe it doesn't-"

"It happens to us as well." Esme nodded. "For Arris, I am certain it was the confusion of waking again after so long. He has shown no signs of it since."

Arris's English was progressing much more slowly than anyone would have expected, but four days later Aiden decided it was best to go ahead with the final waking. They'd all been monitoring the buzz online, but nothing more definitive had come out. There was certainly nothing in the mainstream media. Aiden didn't want to risk waiting. They made arrangements with Robbie and Quentin's contacts. Mary tried to just stay out of that part of it. She knew she couldn't be of any real assistance and she wanted 

Again, he brought Mary out to the site. Mary was glad that this part was finally going to be over. She hated the uncertainty of it, and lately the wakings themselves took so much out of her.

The waking itself happened without incident. As usually, the young male they woke took a defensive, angry stance. Unlike all the others, he attacked Aiden. Mary screamed and tried to rush forward. Robbie and Nigel both stopped her. Aiden easily fended off the attack. Calvus and Jerel held the new one still. Aiden exchanged a few words with them. They took the new one off into the darkness and Aiden approached Mary and the others.

"You're hurt!" Mary's couldn't take her eyes off the three thin scratches on his chest, crimson blood was beginning to drip down from them.

"It is nothing, child." He stroked her cheek gently, and then managed a smile. "Perhaps it is a sign I should begin training again."

"What happened?" Robbie asked.

"Keldon is a juvenile. In your terms, an adolescent. Our adolescent males go through a period of making displays of dominance and unfortunately, Keldon is going through that phase. Waking after so much time and his drive to assert himself suppressed his wisdom momentarily. I do not think he would attack anyone else, but I do not feel it is wise that he meet any of you just now." Aiden explained.

"What will you do with him?" Veronica asked.

"I will give him the fight that he so desires and teach him his place. He will not be harmed by it, but he will learn." Aiden said firmly.

*~*~*~*~*~*

When Aiden returned later that night, the thin scratches had been cleaned and there were no other injuries that Mary could see. It put her a little more at ease. The next night when they met Keldon for the first time, the young male was quiet, respectful, and sporting several large bruises. Still he appeared to be unharmed, just as Aiden had said. The crowd was still present, and still advancing on people trying to enter, but they had lost of their single-mindedness since the curiosity-seekers began arriving and mingling with them.

The days were a blur of research and hurried discussions. When the evening finally arrived Mary felt like it was too soon. She was waiting in the library with Aiden and trying to control her trembling. 

Aiden pulled her gently into his lap. "This is the right thing to do." 

"I know." She snuggled against him. One of his large hands stroked her swollen tummy.

"Tell me what you fear."

The rumble of his voice was comforting. "I'm afraid someone is going to feel so threatened by your existence that they're going to hurt you or one of the others. I don't know what I would do without you."

"You will not lose me, child." He was stroking her arm and the side of her stomach. His touch and the sound of his voice seemed to soothe the baby. He was still inside her at the moment.

"People do awful things to other people who are different. Other sentient beings-"

"And there are just as many who offer kindness to all. We must let this happen and see where it takes us. I worry for you."

"Me? I'm fine."

He chuckled. "My son sleeps under your heart, I would worry about you for that reason alone." He sighed. "Aside from that though, you will bear the brunt of the criticism. It is different for us. This is our nature. You made the choice to be my mate, and to birth a baby that is not fully human or fully gargoyle. I worry your kind will see that as a betrayal of your humanity."

She shrugged. "I can't control what they say, or what they think. As long as you still love me and the baby, I can deal with whatever they say."

He kissed the top of her head. "Until I am returned to the Earth." There was a hitch in his voice.

Before Mary could say anything else there was a sharp knock at the door. Robbie entered.

"Everyone is set up just off the back terrace." He sounded more nervous than Mary had ever heard before. "Are the two of you ready?"

Mary looked at Aiden and struggled with a smile. "As ready as we'll ever be." He kissed her softly.

"We had agreed that I would speak first, just as a general welcome. Then you, Meris and Esme will arrive and I will leave the introductions to Meris. He's prepared a statement and will then take questions. Aiden, you and Mary can choose to answer questions if you like, or you can leave that to Meris and I. Is that still how you want things to go?" He asked. 

Aiden nodded. "I believe that is the best way." 

Robbie looked at her. "Mary?"

"Aiden's right."

"Shall we then?" He smiled and helped Mary to her feet.

The entire group was waiting in the hall. Aiden started up the stairs to wait with the other gargoyles. Mary took a deep breath and walked out onto the terrace with the others, her head held high.

She let Nigel steady her while she sat, and tried not to stare at the sea of people in front of her. She didn't think she had ever seen so many cameras or lights. The faces in the harsh glare were expectant and skeptical at the same time. She had no idea what Robbie and Quentin had said to get them all there, but to see so many, she was sure that it had been something dramatic.

Mary knew he was going to say something general, so she didn't bother listening. She was certain that everyone could hear her heart pounding. She didn't even know Robbie's announcement had ended until she heard the leathery flapping that she knew would signal the arrival of the gargoyles. Everyone looked toward the sky. The three of them landed just in front of the gathered crowd. Someone in that sea of hardened faces screamed. Still cameras flashed, video cameras came to life. 

Mary could only see the three backs, but she could tell that all three were nervous from the way they carried their wings. For a moment, they stood still. When Aiden nodded, he moved behind Mary. Esme stood next to him. Meris began to speak. 

"Thank you all for coming and allowing us to meet you." He used no notes, but his voice was calm. Looking at the audience, Mary could see that the shock still hadn't worn off. "My name is Meris. The other male I arrived with is Aiden, and the female is Esme. We are gargoyles. It is our nature to become stone during the day while we rest and flesh at night. For centuries, we shared your world with you. You protected us as we rested, and we protected you and your lands when darkness reigned. There were those who felt threatened by our very existence, and those people endeavored to destroy our kind completely. They almost succeeded. There were humans who kept a few of us safe during those dark times and through the intervening centuries." He gestured to Mary and her group. "These are the descendants of those brave people. The have brought us back from oblivion, and now we are ready to share your world again. We are not monsters, and have no thoughts of being conquerors. We want nothing more than to quietly coexist with you as equals. I thank you for listening. If you have questions, I will do my best to answer them."

There was silence. For a moment, Mary wasn't certain that there would be any questions at at. Her heart was still pounding in her ears. She looked up at Aiden, and that's when everyone began shouting questions at once.



Heart of Stone Ch. 22



22. The Beginning and the End

Mary didn't know how Meris or Robbie could look so calm when they were facing a barrage of shouted questions. One of the first questions they took was a request, to see one of the gargoyles close up. The person asking seemed genuinely surprised when Meris invited him to come closer. The reporter seemed surprised that Meris had agreed so readily, but he did move forward. By the time he the man returned to where he had been standing, all traces of cynicism were gone from his face.

After that, they asked anything and everything that Mary could imagine. Things that were deemed too personal were quickly deflected. Other questions about culture and language were answered more fully, as were questions regarding their waking. Robbie and Meris skirted the issue of magic for the moment, but she was certain that it was implied. Mary glanced up at Aiden. It was clear that he was proud of the way Meris was representing them.

After twenty minutes Mary began to relax. Aiden's hand rested on her shoulder, she reached up to hold it carefully. She was fairly certain that the small gesture had been noticed, because the cameras seemed to flash in their direction even more. She didn't have time to wonder if speculation was running through the crowd, pain shot through her lower back. She squeezed Aiden's hand a little harder until it faded. 

"Child? Is there something wrong?" His voice was close to her ear.

"No." She smiled a little. "I think I'm just not used to sitting so still in one place for so long."

"You would tell me if you were ill?" 

She turned to look at him, a genuine smile touched her lips. "Yes. I would."

He stood up again, and they both listened while Meris and Robbie fielded more questions about every conceivable topic, from cultural norms to trades gargoyles would be suited for. Mary was certain that it had gone on too long, but Aiden and Meris had decided before it even started that they would take as many questions as possible to give as complete a view as possible. Even if the vast majority of their responses didn't make it to the public initially, the reporters would still have had the experience. 

Another pain shot through Mary's lower back. Again she squeezed Aiden's hand. This time, she reached next to her and grasped Nigel's arm as well.

"What is it?" Nigel asked.

"I don't know, I keep having this sharp pain in my back." The pain had subsided, but her hand was trembling. 

"How often?"

"Only twice. Just now and ten or fifteen minutes ago. It's probably nothing, but it feels different than the achy pain I've had before though."

Nigel looked at the gargoyle standing over Mary. "Aiden, we need to call an end to this, or at least provide an exit for Mary and myself." 

"Agreed." Aiden went over to Meris and spoke in the gargoyle language. There was a short exchange. Mary could see the concern on Meris's face when he looked at her.

"If you would please hold your questions." Meris began. He repeated himself until he had relative silence. "As you can see, our leader's mate is heavy with his child, and she is feeling unwell. Thank you all for coming, and for your kind attention."

Shouts about the relationship rang out, but Meris only repeated his goodbye. Aiden picked Mary up carefully.

"Take her to the treatment room. I'll meet you there," Nigel said to Aiden. 

Aiden glanced at the door and decided flying was quicker. Mary closed her eyes and hid her face from the wind until they were safely on the balcony again. He was down the hall and depositing her carefully on the narrow bed in the converted guest room. Nigel came in with Jenna.

"Aiden, why don't you leave us to it for the moment." Jenna said.

"No! If Mary and my son are in distress-"

"We don't know that for certain."

"What else could it be?"

Jenna put her hand on his elbow and started to lead him out of the room. "It's not unusual for women at Mary's stage of pregnancy to experience a few contractions from time to time. It prepares the body for the birth of the child."

Aiden allowed himself to be lead. "If this is normal, why all the concern?"

"Because we want to make certain that it's nothing more." The nurse's voice was perfectly rational. It was helping calm Mary down too. "You can come back in once we get Mary connected to a monitor."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Four hours later, Mary still lay on the narrow bed in the spare room, but at least Aiden was with her. She couldn't get comfortable enough to sleep, but she could lay with her fingers twined with his. She'd asked about the others and how it went, but no one had wanted to tell her anything until they were sure that she was alright. Finally, Nigel came back in.

"Can't I please just go to my own bed?" She asked. "I haven't felt anything unusual since I got up here."

"You've had a couple of very minor, painless contractions since you've been here, but that's perfectly normal for this time in your pregnancy. You can go back to bed, and I want you to stay there for at least a week."

"A week? Now? With everything-"

"I think the stronger contractions you felt were brought on by stress," Nigel said firmly. "The child is already as large as a full-term human infant, and you have at least four more weeks to go, possibly more considering the gestational differences between humans and gargoyles. You've come this far with both you and the baby in good health. The last thing I want is to jeopardize either one of you needlessly."

"The others and I will keep you apprised of the situation." Aiden assured her.

"I doubt there's going to be much we can do about any of it now that it's out of our hands," Nigel said. "The media will present what they want to present. Our enemy will respond and the cycle will continue. Most things you'll be able to handle quite nicely from your room, with one of the others to assist you. If that becomes too much, or when you're moved to a hospital, we'll make other arrangements."

"So now that I've don't my part and gotten through all the wakings I'm not needed anymore?" Mary was angrier than she had been in a long time. Tears were welling up in her eyes. 

"Certainly not, it's just that everyone's roles will be changing now-"

"And you expect me to just disappear all together." Tears had started to trickle down her cheeks. She let them.

Aiden tried. "Mary-"

"You're on his side!" She accused.

"I am not on anyone's side," Aiden replied firmly. "But I do think everyone will be expressing themselves more clearly after a good night's rest."

"I couldn't have said it better myself." Nigel agreed.

Mary was still angry, but she could feel that her upset was disturbing the baby. She decided not to argue about it any more for the moment, but if they all thought she was going to quietly disappear into her room they would have to think again.

"Whatever, would you just get me out of this thing?" She started tugging at the uncomfortable belt around her waist.

"Of course. Aiden, I'll let you know when we're finished." Nigel said. Aiden kissed Mary's forehead and stepped out of the room.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The next morning, Mary woke up to a different world.

From the balcony, Mary could see that the crowd of strange, still observers was gone entirely. It had been replaced by an equal number of reporters and curiosity-seekers. She went back inside quickly, feeling even more oppressed than she had before. At least she wasn't as angry as she had been the previous night. That didn't mean she was just going to fade away, but she did get so tired so easily. She'd barely gotten out of the shower when someone was knocking on the door.

"Come in."

Caroline rushed in with a stack of phone messages in each hand. Each one looked to be about an inch thick. "Mary, I know you're supposed to be resting, but I don't know how to respond to these and they keep coming."

"Who are they all from?" Mary took one of the stacks and walked into the sitting room with Caroline. Her friend waited until Mary got herself arranged on the sofa.

"Everyone. Reporters and scientists mostly. A few people who are supportive and want to wish you and Aiden the best, and a few who aren't as supportive."

"So it's out then?" 

She nodded. "As of a few minutes after the conference ended last night. You can find the whole thing in at least a dozen places online. I don't know how many people are linking to it."

"The whole thing? Not some edited version?" Mary was surprised that the whole thing would hold the attention of a sound-bite driven world.

"From the minute they started recording to your exit in Aiden's arms."

"I thought they'd show a minute or two here and there, but not all of it."

"The idea is commonplace to us, especially now that we've lived here with Aiden and the others. To the rest of the world, this is bigger than, well, anything that I can think of." Caroline was on the edge between amazed and terrified by the prospect. Mary felt the same way herself. "Anyway, the phone's been ringing non-stop. Bennett has got to be the most patient man on earth. I think he's been awake and answering it since the whole thing broke and he still sounds just as calm and polite as always."

"How's everyone else taking it?"

She laughed, but it was a frustrated sound. "How do you think? Andy wanted everyone to vote on each one of the requests and tell Aiden and the others about it later."

"What?" Mary was angry that he'd even suggest such a thing, but given his track record she wasn't terribly surprised. "No one agreed to that, did they?"

"Certainly not. I got everything that had come in and brought it up here."

Before Mary could answer someone else knocked.

"I'll get it," Caroline said. She returned a few minutes later with Nigel.

"How are you feeling this morning?" He asked.

"Well, I haven't had any more pain. All these messages are a little overwhelming."

"So you know-" A sharp knock interrupted him. Andy came storming into the room next with Robbie right behind him.

"There you are," he said to Caroline, his tone accusatory. "Honestly, I don't know what you were thinking."

"She was thinking of what Aiden and the others would want," Robbie said. "Mary is the one person who would know best-"

"It's not up to her!" Andy's face was red. "I've had enough of bowing to the wishes of a spoiled American girl just because she happens to have some natural ability-"

"Some natural ability!" Caroline shouted. "How dare you belittle Mary's abilities! Without her, none of this would be possible." 

Mary's head was starting to pound.

"Well, did you ever think that that might not be such a bad idea?" Andy shot back.

"SHUT UP!" Mary shouted. Everyone turned to look at her. "Aiden and the other gargoyles are not pets and we don't have the right to make decisions for them. I'm not going to, and neither are any of you. Get someone to relieve Bennett and tell them to keep taking messages. Caroline and I will sort through them, and let Aiden make decisions when he and the others wake up."

"But-"

"But nothing." Robbie said. "What happens to Aiden and the others is entirely their own decision."

"And that's quite enough arguing for the moment. Mary doesn't need the stress." Nigel said firmly.

Andy was sputtering and indignant. "You can't just-"

"I can." Nigel headed out of the room, herding Robbie and Andy along with him.

Mary rubbed her eyes. Suddenly it felt like she hadn't slept at all. Caroline sat down next to her. "Have you eaten anything yet?"

"No."

"I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have come barging in here like that."

"It's alright. I wasn't going to go downstairs anyway. Though with all the turmoil, I'm not certain that I want to bother anyone to bring me a meal."

"Don't be ridiculous. I know Maureen worries about you when you don't come downstairs. Bringing you meals means she gets to see you. I'll get something sent up."

"Thanks. My laptop too," Mary said. "I want to see what's being said."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary spent most of the day sorting through phone messages and watching streaming video of the debate raging around the gargoyles. Everything she'd expected was there. Curiosity and tenuous acceptance of the gargoyles presented by moderate, thoughtful commentators. Bigotry, rage, fear and suspicion fueled largely – as far as Mary could tell at that point - by religious conservative groups. The leading voice among those belonged to Darren Rathbun. 

There were other issues too, things that Mary hadn't even considered. People were questioning whether or not a nonhuman creature could be considered a citizen. What rights and protections under the law were the government obligated to extend? Were the gargoyles required to obey the laws as they were written? What did this mean for other animals in the UK and elsewhere? 

Linguists analyzed the short snippet of Aiden and Meris speaking to each other in the gargoyle language, hoping to determine if it was a language, or just some kind of coded signal. Nearly all of them reached the conclusion that they didn't have enough information to make an accurate determination, but if they had to venture a guess (and they all did) they guessed it was an unknown language.

Questions about the nature and uniqueness of humanity itself were everywhere. With the addition of other speaking, thinking beings, some thought that humanity was threatened somehow. Darren played to this fear, irrational as it was, implying at one point that if the gargoyles were accepted, human beings would be reduced to the level of farm animals. He used Mary's pregnancy as an indication of the sexual aggression of gargoyle males, suggesting that human females weren't safe in their presence. 

Mary didn't know how he could say any of those things with a straight face. It was even further beyond her understanding how anyone could believe in and agree with his twisted logic. She also didn't like relying on other people who had no firsthand knowledge of Aiden and the others to speak on their behalf. 

Late in the afternoon, Caroline and Mary had gotten everything organized enough so that when Aiden woke they could simply present him with the information. Robbie brought more messages up with a tray of raw veggies Mary had asked for.

"Someone from our own group needs to represent us." Mary said, nodding toward the streaming video. She took a carrot stick off the plate. 

"I agree." He sat down. "I was hoping to speak with Aiden about that when he woke up. I hesitate to begin giving interviews without his approval." 

Mary looked at him and smiled a little. "Not everyone feels that way, do they?"

"No. I agree that we needed a more cohesive plan. I don't think anyone realized how quickly this was all going to hit. We should have, but we focused so much on getting to the point of introducing Aiden and the others that we didn't think enough about what would happen after." He glanced at the stacks of messages on the coffee table. "What's all this?"

"It's the only way I could come up with to organize all of them." She began pointing to individual stacks. "Those are the reporters and news agencies. The scientists, broken down by field. Personally, I'd like to throw away all the zoologists, but I'll give Aiden the satisfaction of doing that. Medical doctors and psychologists. Finally, people who just want to express themselves. Most of those are really nice actually. Caroline has them all organized into an Excel file."

"Is that why you needed my laptop?" he asked.

"Yes. Do you need it back?" Caroline asked.

"No. Even if I had it I wouldn't be able to focus on work anyway. I don't think anyone has done anything at all today except watch the coverage and argue about what it all means for us." He looked at Mary. "This is quite an undertaking for someone who's supposed to be on bedrest, though." He smiled.

"I haven't moved all day, except to go to the bathroom, and eat." Mary smiled a little. "Nigel sent you to spy, didn't he?"

"Yes, but only because he knew I was coming up anyway and he wants to keep people out of here as much as possible so you can actually get some rest."

Mary laughed. "And he hasn't posted a guard at the door?" 

"This morning, I think he was tempted."

"This morning, I would have let him." Mary sighed. "It's completely out of our control, isn't it?"

"Most of it is, yes. We can explain, and attempt to influence, but that's all. The rest of the world will form its own opinions. We can only hope that the final outcome will be favorable to us and the gargoyles."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Over the next few weeks, it became clear how right Robbie had been. 

Robbie, Nigel and Jenna stayed at Beeson Hall, but the others went home. Once their names came out though, they were hounded by the press and a curious public. Veronica simply retreated behind her gates and stayed there. Ramona refused to so much as turn her head, much less make any comment. Andy was downright belligerent and for some reason that made him a favorite target, especially of the more salacious publications. The others chose paths that combined the pieces of those things that worked best for them in a specific situation.

The other gargoyles handled the intense interest differently. There were always cameras trained on the estate, and Kitra and Keldon yearned to be in the spotlight. Cerex took to hiding in the house as much as possible, so did ancient Arris. Mary really didn't mind. She enjoyed their company, and she was pleased to see that Cerex seemed to have found her place in caring for the aged male. In getting to know Arris, Mary learned that he had taught the young children of his clan to read and write the complex gargoyle language. His loving, patient nature appeared to give Cerex a sense of safety and comfort that she hadn't been able to capture since her waking.

Meris and Robbie gave interviews just about every night. Mary and Aiden stayed away from the cameras as much as possible though. When questions about the baby and Mary and Aiden's relationship began to dominate, they agreed to give a single interview with one person asking questions. It went as well as anyone could expect, but Mary was very glad when the whole thing was over.

The interview had served to quell some of the curiosity about the relationship, and the sonogram images made it clear that the baby did have gargoyle and human features. It also provided fodder for those who made their livings from analyzing every word that was spoken and doing it out of context. At least two psychologists had decided that Mary was the victim of severe abuse at Aiden's hands. Another diagnosed Aiden as a sociopath. Most said they saw nothing more than a loving couple who were excited about the impending birth of their first child, making it clear that you could find someone to say just about anything.

While the television comments were mostly moderate, the rhetoric online was anything but. Sites sprang up in support of the gargoyles, but there were just as many, if not more, making hateful accusations and assertions that had no basis in fact. One challenged viewers to sneak onto Mary's property and destroy the gargoyles as they slept. Another drew comparisons between gargoyles and demons, making the assertion that the 'circle of witches' had brought Satan and his minions to destroy everything good and decent in the world. She wasn't surprised to find a price on her head. At that point, she hired security.

As time passed and they became accustomed to having their lives dissected on a daily basis, she and Aiden had become adept at ignoring all of it. The public was polarized. She was gratified to see that there were just as many people who accepted Aiden and the others as people who didn't, and she held tight to that fact. 

When the government took up the matter of the gargoyles' status is when that polarization became most apparent. There were demonstrations on both sides of the issue. Mary thought that if the demonstrators hadn't come within sight of each other, everything would have been alright. As it was, things degenerated quickly from shouting to an outright brawl in the street.




Heart of Stone Ch. 22



"We cannot ignore this." Meris said. He, Robbie, Caroline, Nigel, Mary and Aiden were all gathered in her sitting room. The stairs were simply too exhausting for her so people had begun to come to her for these informal evening gatherings. Mary was snuggled next to Aiden on a new, larger sofa.

"What can we do?" Nigel asked. "It isn't as though we can go out there and physically make them stop."

"No matter what we say, Rathbun's group isn't going to listen anyway." Caroline said.

"I agree with you, but that is not who I wish to impact," Meris said. He looked at the gathered group. "Our message has always been that we simply wish to live openly in human society without causing turmoil. If we accept this violence, that invalidates our whole message."

"What do you wish to say?" Aiden asked.

Meris thought for a moment. "That we appreciate the heartfelt support, but we cannot and will not accept or condone violence as a way to further our cause. And that it saddens us that anyone, on either side, was injured."

"Was this an organized group? Or as organized as one could expect in so few weeks?" Robbie asked.

"Yes. I was hoping to have the opportunity to meet with their leaders, but I wished to speak with Mary and Aiden about that. A face to face meeting would have to take place here."

"I believe that would be a good idea," Aiden said. "Make contact and keep me informed."

Mary shifted uncomfortably. Even the small movement seemed to take an enormous effort. Aiden stroked the side of her tummy gently. Nigel looked at her.

"If that's all, I think Mary needs some rest," Nigel said. 

"Of course," Robbie said. The others said goodnight and filed out after him. Nigel shut the door and turned to Mary and Aiden.

"We need to talk." He sat down again. "I know neither of you want to hear this, but I think it's time to move Mary to a hospital."

"Nigel-"

"Mary, we can all see how uncomfortable you are." Aiden said.

"Being in a strange place, surrounded by people I don't know isn't going to make me feel better." Mary felt tears filling her eyes. Aiden pulled her closer.

"You're not going to be alone," Nigel said. "I realize that would be even more stressful for you. Aiden and several of the other gargoyles will go with you of course. Jenna and I will be caring for you as always. I'm sure that Caroline will want to visit as well as Robbie and the others. You're a week away from your due date, and I simply don't feel like I'm doing all I can for you here, not mention if the baby is in distress it'll take time to get you to a hospital. In an emergency those few minutes-"

"Where do I have to go?" Mary sounded completely defeated. She knew that she might able to argue with Aiden, or Nigel, but she didn't stand a chance against the two of them together.

"I have two different facilities in mind." He opened his briefcase and took out two brochures. He handed them to Mary. "Both of them are small, private facilities. Both of them specialize in high-risk deliveries. I've had a number of patients deliver at each one of them. I know all of the doctors and most of the nursing staff at each."

Mary looked through the brochures. Both seemed lovely and well-equipped. The Afton House Birthing Center featured a walled garden. The Willows Mother/Baby Center had a spacious solarium. Other than that, the two seemed identical to Mary.

"What are the differences between the two?" She asked.

"As far as facilities, staff training and those types of things, they're about equal. Afton House can give you a private wing. The Willows can't offer you that to start out with, but may be able to make a similar offer in a week or so," Nigel said.

"Both know that they will be under heavy media scrutiny, and will be able to keep Mary safe from unreasonable intrusions on her privacy?" Aiden asked. 

"Both have assured me that they can," Nigel said.

"I think that more privacy would be better," Mary said. She turned to Aiden. "Will you be able to rest there?"

"I will be able to rest anywhere you are, dear one."

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary was amazed at how quickly the arrangements could be made. All the activity stirred speculation, but the only official comment released was to ask for Mary's privacy to be respected. After dark, Nigel and Jenna drove Mary and Caroline to Afton House. Aiden, Esme and Jerel flew, which Mary was sure would cause quite a stir because they didn't take any care to hide. The rest of the gargoyles remained at Beeson Hall, with Calvus as interim leader. By the time Mary arrived Aiden was waiting for her.

There were four other spacious rooms in the wing Mary occupied. Caroline took one, when Veronica arrived, she occupied another, leaving the other two open for Nigel and Jenna. She made it clear that she would take care of Mary most of the time, but when other nurses were needed they were very carefully screened. Anyone who seemed uncertain about Aiden or the gargoyles was excluded.

For Mary, time seemed to stand still while she was cloistered at Afton House. The others did their best to keep her entertained, but isolated from news and the Internet. As the days wore on, she found she didn't mind that so much. 

Nigel had recommended a caesarian delivery months ago and she and Aiden both agreed that would be safest. Given the unusual circumstances though, he wanted to wait until Mary's labor started, unless she or the baby were in danger before that. Back when she was sort of off-balance and kind of uncomfortable it had sounded like a reasonable plan. Now, she just wanted it to be over.

Esme told her that gargoyle females always went into labor at night, so Mary was certain that she would too. The baby was most active at night anyway. Each night that passed without so much as a contraction seemed almost like a frustrating failure in a way. 

As days turned into weeks, Mary was certain that she was going to be pregnant forever, or until she simply exploded, whichever came first. She slept more than usual during the day. When she wasn't sleeping she would chat or knit with Caroline or Veronica. When her hands were too swollen to allow her to knit, they would play cards.

"Did I tell you that one of my grandnieces eloped with one of her mother Annabelle's gardeners?" Veronica asked. Mary was grateful for Veronica's e-mails with her family. Without them they wouldn't have a whole lot less to talk about.

"No!" Caroline said, her eyes wide. "Was it Elyse?"

"No. Elyse is too afraid of losing her mother's approval. It was her sister, Justine." Veronica said. Mary shifted in bed, trying to relieve a sudden cramp in her back. She'd been getting those cramps since the night before. They weren't strong enough to mention then and they hadn't gotten much stronger, but they were getting more frequent. She figured her body had finally reached a breaking point of some kind.

"Won't Annabelle be just as upset?" Mary asked.

"Of course, but that's the kind of relationship Justine has always had with her mother," Veronica said. "Justine does something outrageous, usually something that Annabelle wishes she had the courage to do herself, and there's a great deal of turmoil in the family until both of them get over whatever little fit of pique they're in."

"This sounds like more than just a momentary thing." Mary said. Another cramp hit her and she shifted again.

"This time it may not be temporary exactly. I'm sure she even has feelings for the young man, but I would bet that the elopement was simply for shock value." Veronica explained. 

Mary bit back a groan, and shifted again.

"Are you alright?" Caroline asked.

"I think so, just having a hard time getting comfortable. I guess that's not so surprising." Mary smiled and then turned to Veronica. "So you think she actually loves him?"

"I do, and I think that Annabelle would actually be happy for her if she hadn't gone running off. It's more the loss of the big wedding that's-"

Sharp, hot pain shot through Mary's back with such an intensity that she couldn't bite back a groan.

"Mary?"

"I'm alright."

"No you're not," Veronica said. "Caroline, find Nigel or Jenna." Caroline hurried out of the room.

Mary felt a warm rush of fluid between her legs. "Oh God, this can't be happening now."

"When my first one was born, I didn't feel ready either."

Nigel came with Jenna following closely behind him. "Caroline said you were in some pain."

Mary nodded. "And I think my water just broke."

"Veronica, if you could step out for just a moment," Nigel said. He examined Mary quickly, his eyebrows rose slightly. He adjusted the sheet over her again when he finished. "You're at seven centimeters."

"What does that mean?" Mary asked.

"That this little one is ready to meet you." He smiled. "Jenna, go and get Dr. Park-"

"No!" Mary said, tears welling up in her eyes.

"Mary-"

"Aiden wanted to be with me, you told him that he could." Another strong contraction made Mary groan.

"Aiden wants to protect your health and the health of the child." Nigel nodded at Jenna, she disappeared. Caroline and Veronica came back in.

"Can't we wait until he wakes up?" The prospect of going through the surgery alone was terrifying.

Nigel shook his head. "Nightfall is still several hours away. Clearly you're progressing more quickly than we'd realized. I don't think it would be safe for you or the baby to wait."

"I don't want to do this alone." Mary was sobbing. She'd gotten used to being without Aiden during daylight hours. She was able to tell herself that he was away at work or something similar. Even a man who worked from sun-up to sun-down would have been there for the birth of his child. Veronica put her arms around Mary's shoulders.

"You won't be alone, I'll be there if you'll let me."

Mary looked at Nigel. "Can she?"

"Of course. Caroline, would you let Aiden know what's happening?" Nigel asked.

The next few minutes were lost in a flurry of tests, preparations, and Veronica finishing her story about Annabelle and Justine. By the time she was wheeled into the operating room, Mary was trembling, but she wasn't crying any more. The spinal anesthetic was administered and Mary quickly lost sensation below her chest. Nigel came in a few minutes later in a surgical mask and gown. 

"Mary, you remember Dr. Afton, and Dr. Park. Dr. Afton will be assisting me. Dr. Park will be taking care of the baby from the moment he arrives. If you feel any pain, or have any difficult breathing, just say so." He instructed. Veronica sat next to Mary's head and two nurses set up a screen at the level of her chest. She recognized one of them as Jenna. The other she thought was the red-haired nurse who took care of her in the evenings. 

"Okay." Mary's voice broke.

"Can you feel this?" Nigel asked.

"Feel what?"

"I think we're ready to begin."

"Did I tell you that daughter Constance delivered her second child this way?" Veronica asked.

"No." Mary was expecting pain or pressure or something, but for the moment she didn't feel anything.

"Yes. I was with her when both of her children were born."

"Where was her husband?"

"You may feel some pulling and some pressure," Nigel said.

"Passed out in the waiting room. He's a lovely man, just completely unable to tolerate the realities of childbirth."

"Nearly there, Mary. Any discomfort?" Nigel asked.

"No."

"Good." 

A moment later, Mary did feel something change, like a weight had been lifted off of her lower body. Dr. Park moved forward, then she heard a cough and then an angry, hissing screech.

"And there's our rather upset young gentleman." The baby's cries got louder and more lusty as Dr. Park brought him around to Mary's head. The large infant was purplish, and even as drugged as she was Mary could see that there were patches of scaly skin on his chest and legs. His scaly tail was wrapped around Dr. Park's arm, his fists and feet flailing.

"He's beautiful." Mary breathed. Dr. Park turned away. "Where are you taking him?"

"Just to make certain he's healthy," Mary watched Dr. Park and the red-haired nurse examine the squalling infant who seemed much too large for the bassinet they placed him in.

"Have you and Aiden talked about names yet, Mary?" Nigel asked.

"We have, but I can't tell anyone yet." Mary's eyes were on the struggling bundle Dr. Park was attempting to examine.

"Why not?" Veronica was curious.

"It's gargoyle tradition that the child's father is the first one to call him by his name. Is he alright?"

"As far as I can tell, he's absolutely perfect." Dr. Park said.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Mary woke slowly. The pain medication she'd been given made the whole world soft and strange, but it did keep the pain in her lower tummy down to a dull ache. For a few minutes, she kept her eyes closed, trying to ground herself with the small sounds of the room. Water dripped in the bathroom, two people passed by in the hall, speaking in hushed tones. She shifted in bed. A large hand touched her shoulder softly. When she opened her eyes, she could see Aiden in the dim light, smiling down at the baby resting in the crook of his arm. Against Aiden's massive body, even the fifteen pound infant looked tiny.

"He is beautiful." He looked at Mary. "I am so sorry that I was not here when you needed me."

Mary sat up slowly, carefully. "He just wanted to surprise us." He wasn't the pinkish color she'd expected, but he didn't have his father's shifting greens and blues and grays either. The lavender reddish tone was going to take some getting used to, so would the prominent bumps on his forehead that would someday become horns.

Aiden shifted the baby so that he was resting against his broad chest. "He is so small, I fear I will injure him." He got up and sat on the bed with Mary, she snuggled against his side.

Mary laughed softly. "Maybe he's small by your standards. He's twice the size of most human newborns."

The baby stirred and stretched, the flailing of his tail pulling the blanket off. Once the blanket was gone he settled again with a big sigh. Mary and Aiden both laughed softly. "Perhaps he is warm enough for the moment. He was awake through the whole day?"

"Yes. I thought that when they took him out of the operating room he would change, but he didn't."

Mary reached out and stroked one small fist. The baby opened his light green eyes and looked at her. He grasped her finger, yawned and went back to sleep. Mary was tempted to do the same thing herself.

"He is the best of both of us."

"Nigel asked what we were going to name him."

He stroked her back gently. "I have been considering that. I want his name to reflect the duality of his nature."

"What did you have in mind?" Mary asked.

"Garrick Ambrose."

Mary smiled. "After your ancestor."

"And yours."

"I like it. Do the others know?"

"Yes, but Jerel and Esme will not see him until tomorrow night."

"Why not?" Mary could feel her body relaxing into his.

"Because this first night is ours alone."

The baby started to fuss and squirm. Mary smiled a little. "I think he's hungry. Let me call Jenna."

"Why?" He helped Mary sit up.

She blushed. "Because I'm not quite sure what I'm supposed to do."

"Then I will help you." He unsnapped the right side of her gown to expose her left breast, then shifted the baby carefully. "Can you turn so that your back is to me?"

She turned so that her back was resting against him. Aiden held Garrick in front of her and pressed her nipple against the baby's lips. Garrick started to suck hungrily. Mary supported his head in the crook of her arm, Aiden held the rest of his weight. She relaxed back against Aiden, he wrapped his tail around her leg.

The rest of the world would make up its own mind, Mary didn't care one way or the other. The baby in her arms and her mate behind her was all she needed.

Author's Note: This is the end of Heart of Stone. Thank you all for reading, I hope you've enjoyed reading it as much as I've enjoyed writing it. Yes, there are unanswered questions, but life is full of those. Could the world accept the gargoyles as equals? It's hard for most of the world to accept ordinary humans who are different, so I'll leave it for you to decide if Aiden, Mary, their son and the others are accepted.

psyche b.